Norwegian Meatballs
Norwegian Meatballs Recipe - Authentic and Delicious
Introduction
Norwegian Meatballs, also known as kjøttkaker, are a traditional dish in Norway that is loved for its savory flavors and hearty texture. These meatballs are typically served with a creamy mushroom sauce and are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.
History
Norwegian Meatballs have been a staple in Norwegian cuisine for centuries. They are often served during holidays and celebrations, as well as for everyday meals. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp of cornstarch
- 0.75 tsp of salt (optional)
- 0.5 tsp of nutmeg
- 2 large egg whites
- 0.75 cup of skim milk
- 1 lb (454 g) of very lean ground beef
- 0.67 cup of cream of mushroom soup
How to prepare
- Place the first 4 ingredients and 0.25 cup of milk in a mixer bowl and mix at low speed to blend well.
- Add the beef to the mixer bowl and mix at low speed to blend well.
- Shape 18 meatballs using about 1.5 tbsp of the mixture per meatball. (The mixture will be soft).
- Place the meatballs in a 9 x 13 pan that has been lined with aluminum foil or sprayed with cooking spray.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (191°C).
- Remove from the pan while still hot and place in a 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) casserole dish.
- Mix the soup and the remaining 0.5 cup of milk well, then pour it over the meatballs.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.
Variations
- You can add chopped onions or garlic to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
- Instead of cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade gravy or a creamy dill sauce.
- For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to mix the ingredients well to ensure that the meatballs hold together.
- Use very lean ground beef to keep the meatballs from becoming too greasy.
- For a richer flavor, you can use full-fat milk instead of skim milk.
- Make sure to line the pan with aluminum foil or spray it with cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Norwegian Meatballs are traditionally served with boiled potatoes, lingonberry jam, and steamed vegetables. They can also be served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the meatballs in the oven helps to keep them moist and tender. Be sure to cover them with the mushroom sauce to prevent them from drying out.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have cornstarch, you can use flour as a thickening agent. You can also use ground pork or a combination of ground meats for the meatballs.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake them. You can also freeze the meatballs after baking and reheat them in the oven.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Norwegian Meatballs on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or chives. You can also sprinkle them with a little paprika for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Norwegian Meatballs pair well with a crisp green salad, pickled cucumbers, and a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Norwegian Meatballs contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Norwegian Meatballs contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Norwegian Meatballs contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Norwegian Meatballs contains approximately 20 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Norwegian Meatballs are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (milk) and eggs.
Summary
Norwegian Meatballs are a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals. However, they are also relatively high in fat and calories, so they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Norwegian Meatballs are a classic dish that is sure to please your family and friends. With a rich and savory flavor, these meatballs are perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering. Enjoy them with all the traditional accompaniments for a taste of Norway in your own kitchen.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered the recipe for Norwegian Meatballs. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Norway. My family, like many others in our village, had a tradition of gathering together for meals on special occasions. One such occasion was my grandmother's birthday, and on that day, my mother decided to make her famous Norwegian Meatballs.
My mother had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a treasured family recipe that had been passed down through the generations, and I was eager to learn how to make it myself. As my mother prepared the ingredients and began shaping the meatballs, I watched closely, taking in every detail.
The key to the recipe, my mother explained, was in the mixture of meats. A combination of beef and pork, seasoned with a blend of spices that gave the meatballs their distinctive flavor. As she worked, she shared stories of her own childhood, of watching her own mother make the meatballs for family gatherings.
As the meatballs cooked on the stove, filling the air with a mouth-watering aroma, my mother taught me how to make the creamy gravy that would accompany them. A mixture of butter, flour, and beef broth, seasoned with a touch of nutmeg and Worcestershire sauce. It was a simple recipe, but one that added a richness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Finally, the meatballs were ready, golden brown and delicious. We gathered around the table, my family and I, as my mother served up the meatballs with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce. The first bite was pure heaven, a burst of savory, comforting flavors that filled my mouth and warmed my soul.
From that day on, Norwegian Meatballs became a staple in our family's meal rotation. Whenever there was a birthday, a holiday, or just a chilly winter night that called for a hearty, comforting meal, my mother would whip up a batch of her famous meatballs. And as I grew older, I began to make them myself, honing my skills and perfecting the recipe with each batch.
Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Norwegian Meatballs to a new generation. And each time I make them, I am transported back to that day in my mother's kitchen, watching her shape the meatballs with love and care. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of my family's heritage and the love that goes into every meal we share.
As I sit here now, writing down the recipe for Norwegian Meatballs for future generations to enjoy, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and traditions that have shaped me. And I hope that whoever reads this story will feel the same sense of warmth and love that I do every time I make these delicious meatballs.
Categories
| Canned Mushroom Soup Recipes | Diabetic-friendly Recipes | Egg White Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Meatball Recipes | Non-fat Milk Recipes | Norwegian Meat Dishes | Norwegian Recipes |