Scandinavian Meatballs and Gravy Recipe
Description:
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Svensk Frikadeller, Lihapyorykat, Kjottkaker, Kottbullar – the beloved Scandinavian meatballs! This cherished recipe, passed down through generations, is a staple on Christmas dinner tables and is affectionately known as “Mother’s Meatballs.” What sets Scandinavian meatballs apart is the meticulous beating of the ground meat until it achieves a light and airy texture, resulting in exceptionally tender and flavorful meatballs.
Ingredients:
- 5-6 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup beef broth
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 264.7
- Fat Content: 19.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 9.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 76.2mg
- Sodium Content: 729.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 5.3g
- Fiber Content: 0.3g
- Sugar Content: 0.7g
- Protein Content: 16g
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Finely chop the onion and set aside.
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Saute Onion: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.
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Prepare Meat Mixture: In the large bowl of an electric mixer, combine the bread crumbs and water. Allow them to soak for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the lean ground beef, salt, allspice, white pepper, and sugar to the bowl.
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Beat Meat Mixture: Start beating the meat mixture on low speed until it becomes smooth. Then, increase the speed to high and beat for approximately 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Note: The meat will lighten in color during beating.
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Shape Meatballs: Dip two teaspoons in ice water to prevent sticking. Using the spoons, shape the meat mixture into tiny meatballs. Alternatively, wet your hands and form the meatballs by hand, or use a small ice-cream scoop dipped in ice water. The meatballs may be slightly oval in shape.
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Brown Meatballs: In a frying pan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the meatballs to the pan and brown them on all sides. Constantly shake the pan to ensure even browning. Once browned, drain the meatballs on paper towels.
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Prepare Gravy: In the same skillet used for browning the meatballs, add the flour and stir over medium heat until the flour is lightly browned. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens and becomes brown. Strain the gravy if desired.
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Serve: Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter and cover them to keep warm. Pour the rich gravy over the meatballs and serve hot.
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Enjoy: Gather around the table and relish the comforting flavors of these Scandinavian meatballs. Perfect for a festive Christmas dinner or any occasion when you crave a hearty and satisfying meal.
Yield: This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Keywords: Scandinavian, European, Christmas, < 60 Mins
Recipe Notes: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking by adjusting the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Serve the meatballs alongside lingonberry sauce, mashed potatoes, or lingonberry jam for an authentic Scandinavian dining experience.
