Traditional Ukrainian Bikti: Savory Meatballs with Mushrooms
Experience the flavors of Ukraine with this traditional Bikti recipe. These savory meatballs are layered with a rich mushroom and onion mixture, perfect served with rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot
- Measuring cups
- spatula
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds of mushrooms
- 2 pounds of beef chuck boneless and ground
- 3 large onions finely chopped (divided into thirds)
- ½ cup of butter or margarine
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 cup of flour
- 2 teaspoons of bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine one-third of the finely chopped onion with the ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well.
- Form the mixture into 2-inch meatballs, then flatten each meatball slightly.
- Coat both sides of each meatball with flour.
- In a frying pan, heat about half of the butter over medium heat.
- Brown the meatballs on both sides until they are golden.
- Chop all of the mushrooms and combine them with the second third of the chopped onions.
- In the same pan, add the remaining butter and cook the mushroom and onion mixture until the onions begin to brown.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, layer half of the mushroom mixture on the bottom.
- Add the last third of the chopped onions as the next layer.
- Place the browned meatballs on top of the onion layer, then cover the meatballs with the remaining mushroom mixture.
- Pour 1 cup of water over the entire mixture and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a high simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are no longer pink in the center.
Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:
Pair with a medium-bodied red wine such as a Merlot or a Pinot Noir to complement the savory flavors of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 28 g | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 4 g | Salt: 650 mg
