Discover the delightful taste of Russia with our scrumptious Bitokes à la Russe, also known as Russian hamburgers! These savory, juicy patties are not just a meal; they’re a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Eastern Europe. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a delightful gathering with friends, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Ready to impress your guests and tantalize your palate? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Russian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into oval-shaped patties, approximately 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Ensure the patties are compact and evenly formed.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1/4 inch deep to ensure proper frying.
- Carefully place the formed patties into the hot oil. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Gently flip the patties and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, ensuring the meat is cooked through with no pink remaining in the center.
- Remove the bitokes from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Optional: Serve hot with a side of sour cream, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a traditional Russian-style meal.
- Allow the bitokes to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to retain moisture and let the juices redistribute.
Tips
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor and texture. Freshly ground meat can make a significant difference in the final dish.
- Chill the Mixture: For easier handling, refrigerate the meat mixture for about 15 minutes before shaping the patties. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the vegetable oil is hot enough before adding the patties. If the oil is not hot enough, the patties may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the patties in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
- Serve with Style: Enhance your Bitokes à la Russe by serving them with a dollop of sour cream and a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Resting Time: Allow the cooked patties to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the meat mixture for a unique twist. Garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 90mg
