Delicious Homemade Buletten: A Traditional German Meatball Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of ground beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs
  • 4 slices of white bread, soaked in water and squeezed dry
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons of mustard
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, soaked bread, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, mustard, and parsley.
  2. Mix well using your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Form the mixture into round patties, each about the size of a small hamburger.
  4. Coat each patty in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully covered.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  6. Add the patties to the pan and fry for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through.
  7. Once cooked, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  8. Allow the Buletten to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ingredients.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
  • Measuring Cup - To measure the breadcrumbs and vegetable oil.
  • Frying Pan - A large pan for frying the Buletten.
  • Spatula - To flip and remove the Buletten from the pan.
  • Paper Towels - For draining excess oil from the cooked Buletten.

Recipe variations

  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
  • Add finely diced bell peppers or grated carrots to the mixture for added vegetables.
  • Replace white bread with whole wheat bread or breadcrumbs for a healthier alternative.
  • Experiment with different spices such as paprika, cumin, or dried herbs to customize the flavor.
  • Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with a meat substitute such as crumbled tofu or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Instead of frying, bake the Buletten in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
  • Create a crust by coating the patties with sesame seeds or crushed cornflakes before frying.
  • Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to enhance the umami flavor.

Recipe overview

This is a traditional German recipe for Buletten, or meat patties, which are a popular dish in Germany and can be served as a main course or a snack. Buletten are made from a flavorful combination of ground beef, onion, garlic, bread, and spices, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown. This recipe requires simple ingredients and is relatively easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or for entertaining guests. The result is a beautifully browned, juicy, and flavorful meat patty that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy Buletten on their own, or serve them with some mustard and a side of German potato salad for a complete meal.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground pork, chicken, or turkey according to your preference.
  2. Can I make the Buletten ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can be convenient for meal planning or if you want to save time on the day of cooking.
  3. Can I freeze the Buletten? Yes, you can freeze the raw patties for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
  4. Can I bake the Buletten instead of frying? Yes, if you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the Buletten in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
  5. What can I serve with Buletten? Buletten are often enjoyed with traditional German sides such as potato salad, sauerkraut, or mashed potatoes. They also work well in a burger bun with lettuce, tomato, and condiments for a tasty burger.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine all the ingredients.
  • Frying Pan - A large pan to fry the Buletten.
  • Spatula - To flip the Buletten while frying and to remove them from the pan.
  • Paper Towels - To absorb excess oil from the cooked Buletten.

Origin stories

Buletten, also known as Frikadellen, are a beloved staple in German cuisine, particularly in the Berlin region. They are said to have been introduced to Germany by the Romans around 400 AD. These meat patties have evolved over the centuries, with each region adding its unique twist. In Berlin, Buletten are traditionally made from beef and are a popular fare at local pubs, often served with a hearty portion of potato salad or bread roll. The humble Buletten is even celebrated with a monument in Berlin, a testimony to its cultural significance and popularity among Berliners.

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.