Swedish meatballs
Swedish meatballs, or 'köttbullar,' are tender meatballs made from ground pork with onion and dill, served in a creamy gravy. This comforting dish is perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals.
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 onion18 oz ground pork
1 yolk
1 tbsp dill
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
3/4 cup chicken gravy
1/3 cup sour cream
Swedish meatballs, or 'köttbullar,' are a classic and beloved dish from Sweden. These flavorful meatballs are typically made with a blend of ground pork, seasoned with onions, dill, and enriched with a creamy gravy. Perfect for both festive occasions and everyday meals, they offer a comforting and savory experience you'll want to make over and over again. Follow this recipe to create delicious homemade Swedish meatballs that will impress your family and friends.
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, sautéed onion, egg yolk, and chopped dill. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Wet your hands to prevent sticking, and then shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 20-25 meatballs.
- In the same frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.
- Using the same frying pan, add the all-purpose flour to the drippings left in the pan. Stir well to combine and cook the mixture for about 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken gravy, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and thicken, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and blend in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
- Return the meatballs to the pan with the sauce, making sure they are well-coated.
- Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, noodles, or with a side of lingonberry sauce for an authentic Swedish touch.
These savory and creamy Swedish meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your household. With their rich flavor and smooth gravy, they are perfect served over mashed potatoes, pasta, or with a side of lingonberry jam. Enjoy this hearty dish as a comforting dinner that brings a taste of Sweden to your table.
Swedish meatballs FAQ:
If you prefer to bake Swedish meatballs, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
The meatballs are done when they are browned on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can also cut one open to check that it is no longer pink inside.
You can substitute ground beef, ground turkey, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a different flavor profile or dietary preference. Adjust the cooking times if needed, depending on the meat used.
Store cooked Swedish meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of gravy or water to prevent drying out.
Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving, and add a splash of water or stock if it thickens too much.
Tips:
- Finely chop the onion: Ensure the onion is finely chopped to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the meatballs and achieve a smoother texture.
- Do not overmix the meat: Mix the ground pork, yolk, and dill just until combined to keep the meatballs tender and avoid making them dense.
- Brown the meatballs properly: Cook the meatballs in olive oil over medium heat until they are golden brown on all sides. This step adds a deep, caramelized flavor to the dish.
- Make a roux for the gravy: Start with butter and flour to create a roux, which will help thicken the chicken gravy and give it a rich, smooth consistency.
- Temper the sour cream: To prevent the sour cream from curdling, temper it by adding a small amount of hot gravy to the sour cream before combining it with the rest of the sauce.
- Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the Swedish meatballs immediately after cooking, while they are hot and the gravy is creamy.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 510kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 0.91g
Sugar 3.14g
Fat 40g
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