Traditional Swedish Köttbullar Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500g ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons lingonberry jam, for serving
  • Parsley, for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Shape the mixture into small, round balls. Place the balls on a plate or tray, and refrigerate them for about an hour to help them keep their shape while cooking.
  3. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook them until they're brown on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate and set them aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for a couple of minutes until it turns a golden color.
  5. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken. This should take about 5 minutes.
  6. Add the heavy cream to the skillet, and stir until it's well mixed into the sauce. Return the meatballs to the skillet, and simmer them in the sauce for another 10 minutes.
  7. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with parsley and lingonberry jam on the side.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - for mixing the ingredients
  • Skillet - for browning the meatballs and making the sauce
  • Plate or tray - for placing and refrigerating the shaped meatballs
  • Whisk - for stirring and incorporating the flour, broth, and cream

Recipe variations

  • Use ground pork or a combination of ground beef and pork instead of just ground beef for a different flavor.
  • Add finely chopped mushrooms to the meatball mixture for added depth and texture.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for a crispy crust.
  • Try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a meat-free option.
  • Add grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, to the meatball mixture for a cheesy twist.
  • Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to customize the flavor profile.
  • Serve the meatballs with a different sauce, such as a creamy mushroom sauce or a tangy cranberry sauce.
  • Make mini meatballs instead of larger ones for bite-sized appetizers.
  • For a healthier version, bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them.

Recipe overview

Köttbullar, also known as Swedish meatballs, are a classic and beloved dish from Sweden. Known for their small size and distinctive spice blend, they're more than just a tasty meatball. They're often served with a creamy gravy, tart lingonberry jam, and fresh parsley, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This recipe will guide you step by step through the process of making authentic köttbullar at home. The process involves mixing a blend of ground beef and seasonings, shaping the mixture into balls, and browning them in a skillet. The meatballs are then simmered in a luscious cream sauce until they're tender and flavorful. This dish is comforting, satisfying and sure to please the whole family.

Common questions

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the meatballs may vary.
  2. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs? Certainly! If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs without significantly affecting the outcome of the recipe.
  3. Can I freeze the meatballs? Absolutely! Once cooked and cooled, you can freeze the meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them fully before reheating.
  4. What can I substitute for lingonberry jam? If lingonberry jam is not available, cranberry sauce or red currant jelly can be used as a substitute. They provide a similar tangy sweetness that complements the meatballs well.
  5. Can I make the meatballs in advance? Certainly! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together, and it also saves time when you're ready to cook them.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
  • Skillet - A large skillet for cooking the meatballs and making the sauce.
  • Plate or Tray - A flat surface for placing the shaped meatballs before cooking.
  • Whisk - A utensil used for stirring and incorporating ingredients into the sauce.
  • Spatula - A tool for flipping and transferring the meatballs while cooking.
  • Measuring Cups - Used to accurately measure ingredients like breadcrumbs, milk, and flour.
  • Knife - For finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  • Cutting Board - A surface for chopping and preparing the onion and garlic.
  • Ladle - Used for serving the meatballs and sauce onto plates.

Origin stories

Köttbullar, or Swedish meatballs, as they are known internationally, carry a rich culinary history that dates back to the 18th century. Interestingly, it is said that King Charles XII of Sweden brought the concept of meatballs back with him after spending years in the Ottoman Empire during the Great Northern War. The original recipe was adapted to suit the tastes and available ingredients of the Swedish people, taking on a life of its own as a beloved national dish. Today, whether served in a traditional meal with potatoes, lingonberries and gravy, or nestled within a comforting dish of pasta, köttbullar continues to be a hearty reminder of Sweden's historical ties and culinary evolution.

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.