Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Authentic German Frikadellen! These savory little meatballs are like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I had them at a friend’s family gathering—my heart skipped a beat with every bite. They’re packed with flavor from the blend of ground beef and pork, mixed with aromatic onions and garlic, and just the right hint of mustard. The smell wafting through the kitchen while they fry is simply irresistible! Trust me, once you try making these, you’ll find yourself craving them all the time. They’re not just delicious; they’re the perfect dish for cozy dinners or when you want to impress your friends with your cooking skills. So, let’s dive into making these delightful German meatballs together!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making mouthwatering Authentic German Frikadellen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 500g ground beef: This will give your meatballs a rich flavor and hearty texture.
- 200g ground pork: The combination of pork adds juiciness and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Make sure to chop it really small so it blends in beautifully and adds depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick!
- 2 slices of bread, crumbled: You can use any bread you have on hand; just crumble it for binding. For a softer texture, soak the bread in a little water first.
- 1 egg: This acts as a binder, helping everything stick together perfectly.
- 1 tsp mustard: Trust me, this adds a delightful zing that elevates the flavor!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skip this! Seasoning is everything for that delicious taste.
- 2 tbsp oil for frying: Use a good frying oil—something with a high smoke point works best, like vegetable or canola oil.
Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking! It’ll make the process so much smoother and more enjoyable. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Authentic German Frikadellen
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get into the fun part—making these delicious Authentic German Frikadellen! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a plate full of mouthwatering meatballs in no time.
Preparing the Meat Mixture
First things first, grab a large mixing bowl. Start by adding the ground beef and ground pork together. I like to use my hands for this part—there’s something so satisfying about mixing with your hands! Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. These are the flavor heroes of this dish! Then, add the crumbled bread, egg, mustard, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Don’t worry if it feels a bit sticky; that’s just how it should be! Mix everything together until it’s thoroughly combined. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
Shaping the Meatballs
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the meatballs. I usually take a handful of the mixture and roll it between my palms to form balls about the size of a golf ball. This size cooks evenly, and trust me, you want a good bite! If your hands get sticky, just wet them a little with water; it helps keep things neat and tidy. Place the shaped meatballs on a plate or cutting board, and make sure they’re not touching each other—this’ll help them cook evenly later on!
Cooking the Frikadellen
Now, let’s get frying! Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking—aim for that perfect sizzle when the meatballs hit the pan! Carefully add the meatballs to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that beautiful golden-brown color to form. It’s essential to turn them gently to avoid breaking them apart. Once they’re browned and cooked through, you can remove them and let them drain on a paper towel. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and I guarantee your taste buds will be dancing with anticipation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delightful meatballs in no time!
- Flavor-packed: The combination of beef, pork, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a main course, in a sandwich, or even as an appetizer—there’s no wrong way to savor these!
- Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and store them for later—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and homemade.
- Kid-approved: These meatballs are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a great family dinner option.
- Comfort food classic: They’re the ultimate cozy dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Authentic German Frikadellen turn out perfectly every time, I’ve gathered some of my best tips and tricks. These little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid common pitfalls and enhance the flavors in your meatballs!
- Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. You want them tender and juicy!
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before shaping them into meatballs! If it needs a bit more salt or pepper, this is your chance to adjust. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, use fresh bread that you can crumble yourself for better texture and taste.
- Watch the heat: Keep an eye on the heat while frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. Medium heat is your best friend here!
- Let them rest: After cooking, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps them hold their juices and flavors.
- Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mix! A little paprika, thyme, or even a dash of cayenne can elevate the flavor profile.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best frikadellen ever. Enjoy the cooking process, and remember—cooking is all about having fun and sharing delicious food with loved ones!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Authentic German Frikadellen, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (that’s one meatball), so you can savor every bite with a bit of insight:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, whether you’re enjoying them for a family dinner or adding them to your meal prep, you can feel good about indulging in these flavorful meatballs!
FAQ Section
Can I use only ground beef for the frikadellen?
Absolutely! While the combination of ground beef and pork gives the frikadellen a delightful flavor and texture, you can certainly use just ground beef if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that they might be a bit less juicy!
What’s the best way to store leftover frikadellen?
To store your delicious leftovers, simply let the frikadellen cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them! Just make sure to label the container with the date.
Can I bake frikadellen instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them if you prefer a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. They might not get that crispy exterior you love from frying, but they’ll still be delicious!
What can I serve with frikadellen?
These authentic German meatballs are incredibly versatile! You can serve them with mashed potatoes, potato salad, or even a fresh green salad. They also pair wonderfully with a tangy sauce or mustard for dipping. I love serving them with a side of sauerkraut for that classic German touch!
How can I make frikadellen gluten-free?
To make gluten-free frikadellen, simply substitute the bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure that all your other ingredients are also gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious dish everyone can enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to store and reheat those delicious Authentic German Frikadellen so you can enjoy them later without losing any of that amazing flavor! Proper storage is key to keeping them tasty and juicy.
First off, once your frikadellen have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to save some for a longer period, you can freeze them! Just pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container, label it with the date, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months.
Now, when it comes to reheating, there are a couple of methods I love! If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them. Just place the frikadellen on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist, and heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
For the best results, though, I recommend reheating in a skillet. Just heat a tiny bit of oil over medium heat, add the frikadellen, and warm them through for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re heated all the way. This way, they’ll get that lovely crispy exterior back! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your frikadellen anytime you want, making them a perfect make-ahead meal. Happy eating!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve cooked up a batch of these delicious Authentic German Frikadellen, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more delightful with some perfect pairings! These little meatballs are so versatile, and the right sides or sauces can really elevate your dining experience. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with a creamy bowl of mashed potatoes! The buttery goodness is a classic pairing that complements the savory flavors of the frikadellen beautifully.
- German Potato Salad: This tangy and warm potato salad, made with vinegar, bacon, and onions, is a fantastic side that adds a nice zing to your plate.
- Red Cabbage: A side of sweet and sour red cabbage is not only colorful but also adds a crunchy texture that balances the meatballs perfectly. Plus, it’s a traditional German side!
- Sauerkraut: For a truly authentic experience, serve your frikadellen with some tangy sauerkraut. The tartness cuts through the richness of the meatballs, creating a delightful flavor contrast.
- Gravy or Mustard Sauce: Drizzling your meatballs with a rich brown gravy or a zesty mustard sauce can take them to the next level. The sauces add moisture and extra flavor, making every bite even more satisfying!
- Fresh Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the frikadellen and add a burst of freshness.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on your mood or what you have on hand! The beauty of Authentic German Frikadellen is that they shine in so many different meal settings. Enjoy crafting your perfect plate, and remember, sharing this feast with loved ones makes it all the more special!
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Authentic German Frikadellen: 5 Reasons You’ll Love Them
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Authentic German Frikadellen are savory meatballs made from ground meat and spices.
Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 200g ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 slices of bread, crumbled
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef and ground pork.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled bread, egg, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Notes
- For a softer texture, soak the bread in water before crumbling.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- These meatballs freeze well for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: authentic german frikadellen, german meatballs, frikadellen recipe
