Introduction
Köttbullar, or Swedish meatballs, are a beloved dish in Swedish cuisine, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. These tender meatballs are typically made from a mixture of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices, breadcrumbs, and onions, then fried until golden brown. They are usually served with a rich cream sauce, alongside lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and hearty meal that showcases the flavors of Sweden.
Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef
- 250 g ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lingonberry sauce (for garnish)
- Mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ground allspice, salt, black pepper, and parsley (if using).
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
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Shape the Meatballs:
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate as you go.
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Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Meatballs and Gravy:
- Return the meatballs to the skillet with the gravy, gently stirring to coat them in the sauce. Allow them to simmer together for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Serve:
- Serve Köttbullar hot, garnished with lingonberry sauce, alongside creamy mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes.
Health Notes
- Köttbullar can be high in calories and fat, particularly due to the use of pork and cream. To make them healthier, consider using lean ground meats and reducing the amount of cream in the gravy. Serve with plenty of vegetables for added nutrition.
How to Enjoy
- Köttbullar are best enjoyed warm, served with lingonberry sauce for a sweet-tart contrast to the savory meatballs. They can be part of a larger Swedish meal or enjoyed on their own as a comforting dish.
Tips
- Batch Cooking: Köttbullar freeze well, so consider making a double batch and freezing half for later use.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the meatball mixture, such as nutmeg or thyme, to customize the flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with pickled cucumbers or a simple green salad to add freshness to the meal.
- Oven-Baked Option: For a healthier option, bake the meatballs in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through until browned and cooked through.
