Swedish meatballs, known as "Svenska Kottbullar" in Sweden, are a beloved traditional dish celebrated for their rich, creamy sauce and distinctive spice blend. These meatballs are a staple in Swedish cuisine and have gained international fame, in part due to their presence in popular furniture store cafeterias around the world. This recipe offers a comprehensive guide to making authentic Swedish meatballs at home.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 500 grams ground beef
- 250 grams ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 100 grams breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 100 ml milk
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 40 grams butter
- 40 grams all-purpose flour
- 400 ml beef broth
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by soaking the breadcrumbs in the milk for about 10 minutes, until they are fully absorbed and the mixture is pasty.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well integrated.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into small, round balls. Each meatball should be about the size of a golf ball.
Step 4: Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and gently place the meatballs in the pan. Fry them until they are brown all around and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken, stirring continuously.
Cooking Note:
Ensure that the meatballs are not overcrowded in the pan during frying to allow them to brown evenly. Additionally, simmer the sauce gently to prevent it from splitting.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and a side of pickled cucumbers for a traditional Swedish meal.
Tips:
- For lighter meatballs, you can substitute half of the cream in the sauce with milk.
- Adding a small amount of sugar to the meatball mixture can enhance the flavors, balancing the richness of the meats.
- If lingonberry jam is unavailable, cranberry sauce makes a reasonable substitute.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 18 grams per serving
- Sodium: 870 mg per serving
Swedish meatballs offer a delightful taste of Sweden’s culinary tradition, bringing warmth and comfort to any dining table. Whether enjoyed at a cozy family dinner or served as part of a festive holiday feast, these meatballs are sure to impress with their tender texture and savory cream sauce. The combination of spices like allspice and nutmeg provides a unique flavor that distinguishes Swedish meatballs from other varieties. Enjoy cooking this beloved dish that continues to be cherished in kitchens around the globe.
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