Russian Beef Kotleti

Instructions

1. Prepare the panade
   Tear the bread into small pieces and place in a small bowl. Pour milk over the bread and let it soak for 5 minutes until soft. Mash with a fork to create a paste.
2. Make the meat mixture
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, soaked bread, egg, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined but avoid overmixing.
3. Form the patties
   With wet hands, shape the meat mixture into oval patties about 3 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 1/2 inch thick. Place the flour on a plate and lightly coat each patty on both sides.
4. Heat the pan
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing the butter to melt completely.
5. Cook the kotleti
   Place the patties in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Finish the second batch
   Remove the first batch to a plate lined with paper towels. Add remaining oil and butter to the skillet and cook the second batch of patties in the same manner.
7. Rest and serve
   Allow the kotleti to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, buckwheat kasha, or a fresh vegetable salad. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.