Family-Style Ukrainian Kotleti

Ingredients:

500 g ground chicken (light texture)

500 g ground pork (juicy, flavorful base)

1 slice cheap white bread or burger bun (soft, neutral, not artisanal)

1 medium onion, grated fine

2 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to taste)

1 large egg (binder)

2–3 tbsp all-purpose flour (goes in the mixture)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Additional flour (for coating—unbleached, regular is best)

Sunflower oil (for frying, traditional flavor)

Instructions

1. Prep the Bread & Mixture:

Tear soft bread by hand (no need to soak unless it's very firm).

In large bowl, combine:

✅ Ground chicken

✅ Ground pork

✅ Torn bread pieces

✅ Grated onion

✅ Minced garlic

✅ Egg

✅ 2–3 tbsp flour

✅ Salt & pepper to taste

Mix gently by hand. Don’t overwork. It should hold together but stay soft.

2. Shape the Kotleti:

Prepare small bowl with flour for coating.

Scoop mixture with a large spoon into your hand.

Shape into oval or football-like patties—press gently but firmly enough to hold form.

Lightly pat in flour bowl to coat all sides.

3. Fry the Kotleti:

Heat sunflower oil over medium heat in wide skillet.

Place patties gently in pan—don’t overcrowd.

Fry 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Maintain medium heat—flour coating can burn if too hot.

Internal temp should reach 70°C (160°F) to ensure chicken is safe.