Entree: Lithuania – Northern Culinary Region – Kotletai (Pan-fried seasoned minced meat patties common in Lithuanian home cooking)

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 20 min

Cook 12 min

Additional 3 min

Total 35 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (454 g) ground pork
- 8 oz (225 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped, about 4 oz (115 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (6 g)
- 1/2 cup (60 g) dry breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp (6 g) salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) sweet paprika
- 2 tbsp (8 g) chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour for dredging
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 tbsp (14 g) butter, optional, for finishing

Instructions

1. In a large bowl combine ground pork, ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Mix gently until evenly combined but do not overwork.
2. Form the mixture into 8 oval patties (kotletai), about 3 in (7–8 cm) long and 1/2 in (1–1.5 cm) thick. Lightly dredge each patty in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add patties in a single layer without crowding; cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter if using, and continue cooking 3–5 minutes more, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and patties are cooked through.
5. Transfer kotletai to a warmed plate and let rest 3 minutes. Serve hot with boiled potatoes, sour cream, pickles, or a light gravy.