Swedish Meatballs

Swedish Meatballs are a beloved Scandinavian dish known for their rich and creamy sauce and savory meaty goodness. These delectable meatballs are perfect as an appetizer, served over a plate of noodles, or nestled into a bed of mashed potatoes. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a traditional Swedish Meatball recipe, complete with ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and a tasty conclusion.

 

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 pound (225g) ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)

For the Cream Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

1. With clean hands, shape the meat mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs. Traditionally, Swedish Meatballs are smaller than regular meatballs, about the size of a walnut.

Step 3: Fry the Meatballs

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, remove the meatballs and set them aside.
2. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt it over medium heat.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and stir constantly to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes or until it’s lightly browned.
4. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, heavy cream, and soy sauce (if using). Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer. This should take about 5 minutes.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

1. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the cream sauce.
2. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish the Swedish Meatballs with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve your Swedish Meatballs hot, traditionally over lingonberry sauce and alongside mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

 

Pro Tips for Delicious Swedish Meatballs:

1. Mixing the Meat: Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, as this can make the meatballs dense. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
2. Consistency of Meatballs: To ensure your meatballs are uniform in size, use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape them.
3. Gravy Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, you can add more broth or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Lingonberry Sauce: Swedish Meatballs are traditionally served with lingonberry sauce, which provides a delightful sweet-tart contrast to the savory meat and creamy sauce.

 

Swedish Meatballs are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. With their tender meat and creamy sauce, they offer a delightful taste of Sweden’s culinary tradition. Whether served as an appetizer or as the main course, these meatballs are sure to become a cherished favorite in your family’s cookbook. Enjoy your homemade Swedish Meatballs!