Classic Dutch Gehaktbal: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of ground beef
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 100 grams of breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons of butter
  • 1/2 cup of beef broth
  • Parsley for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Shape the meat mixture into a large ball. Make sure it is compact and holds its shape.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  4. Add the meatball to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.
  5. Once the meatball is browned, add the beef broth to the skillet and reduce heat to low.
  6. Cover the skillet and let the meatball simmer in the broth for about 30 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through.
  7. Remove the meatball from the skillet and place it on a serving dish. Pour some of the remaining broth over the meatball for extra flavor.
  8. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - to combine and mix the ingredients
  • Skillet - for browning the meatball and simmering in the broth
  • Serving dish - to present the finished meatball
  • Knife - for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic
  • Measuring spoons - to accurately measure the salt, pepper, and nutmeg
  • Measuring cup - for measuring the breadcrumbs and beef broth
  • Spatula - for turning the meatball in the skillet
  • Cooking spoon - for mixing the ingredients and stirring the broth

Recipe variations

  • Replace ground beef with ground pork or a combination of pork and beef.
  • Add grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Gouda, to the meat mixture for added flavor.
  • Try different herbs and spices, such as paprika, oregano, or thyme, to customize the seasoning.
  • Make a stuffed version by adding a cube of cheese or a hard-boiled egg in the center of the meatball.
  • Use different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or seasoned breadcrumbs, for a variation in texture.
  • Experiment with different sauces, such as tomato sauce, mushroom sauce, or gravy, to serve with the meatball.
  • For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the meat mixture for added vegetables.
  • Make mini meatballs instead of one large meatball for bite-sized servings.
  • Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or cornflakes for a different crust texture.

Recipe overview

Satisfy your cravings for hearty, homemade comfort food with this traditional Dutch recipe for Gehaktbal. This dish features a large, flavorful meatball made from ground beef and a blend of spices, including a hint of nutmeg for a unique taste. Our Gehaktbal recipe is pan-fried to perfection, then simmered in a rich beef broth to achieve its signature moist and tender texture. With a garnish of fresh parsley, this dish is not only delicious but also pleasing to the eye. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of preparing this classic dish and most importantly, enjoy every bite of it!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? While the traditional Gehaktbal recipe calls for ground beef, you can certainly experiment with other types of ground meat such as pork or a mixture of beef and pork.
  2. Can I substitute breadcrumbs with something else? Yes, if you don't have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or even stale bread that has been finely grated.
  3. Can I make the meatball ahead of time and reheat it later? Yes, you can make the meatball ahead of time and reheat it later. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
  4. What can I serve with Gehaktbal? Gehaktbal is commonly served with mashed potatoes and vegetables. It can also be enjoyed with a side of gravy or mustard sauce.
  5. How do I know when the meatball is fully cooked? The meatball is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

The humble gehaktbal (meatball) has a special place in the heart of Dutch cuisine. It's a comforting food, often served alongside potatoes and vegetables or in a sandwich. The Netherlands is actually known for making some of the world's largest meatballs, with sizes ranging from the diminutive bitterballen served at bars, to the hearty gehaktbal offered at family dinners. In fact, in 2009, a group of Dutch butchers made it to the Guinness World Records by making the world's largest meatball, weighing in at an astonishing 643 kg. That's one giant meatball!

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.