Bitterballen (Dutch Beef Croquettes)
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 30 pieces
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef chuck (biancostato) | 500g |
| Water | 5L |
| Salt | to taste |
| Beef broth | 600ml |
| All-purpose flour (00) | 150g |
| Butter | 100g |
| White onions | 30g |
| Fresh parsley | 1 bunch |
| Nutmeg | to taste |
| Ground black pepper | to taste |
| Eggs | 3 |
| All-purpose flour (00) | 150g |
| Breadcrumbs | 150g |
| Peanut oil | 800ml |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Start by preparing the beef for the croquettes. Place the beef chuck in a large pot with 1.5L of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and fully cooked.
- Once the beef is cooked, strain the broth and set both the beef and the broth aside. You will need the broth later.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- While the beef is cooking, prepare the sauce for the croquettes. Finely chop the parsley and the white onions.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onions and cook gently until they are soft and translucent.
- Slowly add the flour to the pan, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent lumps. Continue stirring and cook the flour until it turns a light golden color—this will form your roux.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Gradually add the beef broth to the roux, stirring constantly. Once the broth is fully incorporated, bring it to a simmer and cook for a few minutes to allow the mixture to thicken.
- Shred the cooked beef into small, bite-sized pieces using your hands, and add the beef to the sauce. Mix everything together well, and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes. The mixture should be thick and not too runny.
- Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper, nutmeg, and additional salt to taste. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
Step 4: Form the Croquettes
- Once the beef mixture has cooled slightly, take about one tablespoon of the filling and shape it into small cylindrical croquettes. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs, and in another shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs and the additional flour.
- Roll each croquette first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. Ensure each croquette is well-coated.
Step 5: Fry the Croquettes
- Heat the peanut oil in a deep frying pan or large pot to 180°C (350°F). Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the croquettes in, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the croquettes until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally for even cooking. Once golden and crisp, remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your Bitterballen hot, as a delicious appetizer or snack. They’re perfect with mustard for dipping, making for a delightful treat for any occasion!
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving of 2 croquettes):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
Enjoy the crispy, savory flavors of these traditional Dutch croquettes, known as Bitterballen. Perfect for gatherings or simply as a savory snack, they bring together tender beef and aromatic spices, enveloped in a crunchy coating that’s sure to delight everyone!
