Authentic Norwegian Kjøttboller: Traditional Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of ground beef
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon allspice
  • 2 tablespoons of butter
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons of flour
  • 1/2 cup of heavy cream

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into small balls, each about 1 inch across.
  3. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add the beef broth. Stir in the flour, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Add the heavy cream to the sauce, stirring until it is well mixed.
  7. Return the meatballs to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the meatballs sit for a few minutes in the sauce before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients for the meatballs.
  • Skillet - A large skillet to cook the meatballs and prepare the sauce.
  • Whisk - Used to mix the flour into the beef broth without lumps.
  • Spatula - To flip and stir the meatballs while cooking.
  • Measuring Cups - To measure the breadcrumbs, milk, and heavy cream accurately.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Recipe variations

  • Use ground pork or a combination of ground meats instead of ground beef.
  • Add grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, to the meatball mixture.
  • Include finely chopped herbs, such as parsley or dill, for added flavor.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for a different texture.
  • Make the meatballs gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • Experiment with different spices and seasonings, such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder, to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a lighter version, bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them.
  • Try a vegetarian version by substituting the ground meat with a plant-based meat substitute, such as textured vegetable protein (TVP) or crumbled tofu.
  • Make a creamy sauce using sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
  • Add a twist to the sauce by incorporating ingredients like tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, or mustard.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the steps to make traditional Norwegian Kjøttboller, or meatballs. This classic dish is a staple in many Norwegian households, and for good reason - it's hearty, comforting, and absolutely delicious. The meatballs are made with ground beef and a mix of spices that give them a unique and delightful flavor. They're then cooked in a rich sauce made with beef broth and heavy cream. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, and can be served with potatoes, vegetables, or bread. With this recipe, you'll be able to create a taste of Norway right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process of making these flavorful meatballs and the delightful meal that results.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef? Yes, you can use ground pork or ground turkey as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe.
  2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
  3. Can I freeze the meatballs? Absolutely! You can freeze the meatballs after they are cooked. Allow them to cool, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  4. What can I serve with kjøttboller? Kjøttboller are traditionally served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and a side of vegetables. You can also serve them with boiled potatoes, pasta, or as part of a sandwich.
  5. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe if you need to make a larger batch. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining and mixing the ingredients.
  • Skillet - A large, flat-bottomed frying pan used for browning the meatballs and making the sauce.
  • Whisk - Used for stirring and mixing the flour into the beef broth to prevent lumps.
  • Spatula - For flipping and turning the meatballs while they cook.
  • Cover - A lid or cover for the skillet to simmer the meatballs in the sauce.
  • Measuring Cups - To accurately measure the ingredients, such as milk and breadcrumbs.
  • Measuring Spoons - For precise measurement of spices and seasonings.
  • Knife - For finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

Origin stories

Kjøttboller, the Norwegian name for meatballs, have a long history in Scandinavian cuisine. The dish is believed to have been imported to Scandinavia from a country that may surprise you - Turkey. In the early 18th century, King Charles XII of Sweden fell into exile in Turkey. When he returned to his homeland, he brought with him the concept of 'kofte', or Turkish meatballs. The dish was well-received and quickly spread throughout the region. Each Scandinavian country put their unique twist on the recipe, with the Norwegians adding distinct spices such as ginger and nutmeg, giving their kjøttboller a unique, warming taste. This flavorful dish has since become a beloved staple in Norwegian homes, serving as a comforting reminder of the country's rich culinary history, and the unexpected places from which it draws its influence.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.