Classic Dutch Kroketball Recipe: A Flavorful Snack Journey to the Netherlands

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of ground beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of flour
  • 1/2 cup of beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 2 tablespoons of butter
  • 1/2 cup of milk

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, cook until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef to the pan, cook until browned.
  4. Stir in the flour, and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Gradually add the beef broth and milk, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens.
  6. Add the nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  7. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool.
  8. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, shape it into small balls.
  9. Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, then roll in the breadcrumbs to coat.
  10. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large, deep saucepan to 180°C (350°F).
  11. Carefully place the balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
  12. Remove the balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  13. Serve the Kroketball hot, with your choice of dipping sauce.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken or turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter variation.
  • Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or panko for a different crust texture.
  • Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, to the mixture for a cheesy twist.
  • Try using mashed potatoes as a binder instead of flour for a gluten-free option.
  • Add chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the mixture for added flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices and seasonings, such as paprika or curry powder, to customize the flavor profile.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked and mashed vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and corn.
  • For a vegan alternative, replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute and use plant-based milk and butter.
  • Serve the Kroketball with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli, sweet chili sauce, or spicy ketchup.
  • Add a touch of heat by incorporating chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes into the mixture.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our delicious Kroketball recipe! This traditional Dutch snack is a favorite at parties and family gatherings, known for its crispy exterior and rich, meaty interior. Made from ground beef, onions, and a blend of spices, these savory meatballs are then coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection. They're a bit of an indulgence, but well worth the effort. The final result? Crispy, crunchy balls of flavor that are perfect for dipping. This recipe will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you end up with perfect Kroketball every time. Happy cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian meat substitute if you prefer.
  2. Can I use pre-made breadcrumbs instead of making my own? Absolutely! You can use store-bought breadcrumbs if you don't have the time or ingredients to make your own. Just make sure they are finely ground.
  3. Is it necessary to refrigerate the mixture before shaping into balls? Yes, it is recommended to let the mixture cool in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before shaping into balls. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to handle and shape.
  4. Can I bake the kroketball instead of frying? While traditionally kroketball is deep-fried, you can bake them in the oven if you prefer a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), place the coated balls on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, turning them once halfway through.
  5. Can I freeze the kroketball? Yes, you can freeze the kroketball. After frying or baking, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Kroketballen, more commonly known as Kroket, are a Dutch delicacy that originated in the Netherlands in the 19th century. Their creation is credited to a chef named Guillaume Richard, who came up with the idea of using up leftover French pot-au-feu. He mixed the leftover stew with béchamel sauce, rolled it into a cylinder, breaded, and deep-fried it, giving birth to the first Kroket. Since then, it has been adapted in various forms, including the round-shaped Kroketballen. Today, they are a staple in Dutch cuisine, found in every Dutch supermarket and fast food restaurant, and even have a special national day, "National Krokettendag," dedicated to them on October 9th.

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.