Swedish Meatballs I

Swedish Meatballs Recipe | Authentic and Delicious Dish

Region / culture: Sweden | Servings: : 6

Introduction

Swedish Meatballs are a classic dish that originated in Sweden and have become popular worldwide. These savory meatballs are typically served with a creamy gravy and lingonberry sauce, making them a comforting and delicious meal.

History

Swedish Meatballs have been a staple in Swedish cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to the 18th century. Traditionally made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, these meatballs were often served at festive occasions and family gatherings. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, including the use of ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative.

Ingredients

1 egg
0.5 cup low-fat (1%) milk
2 slices whole wheat bread, lightly toasted and crumbled
0.5 small onion, minced
2 tbsp minced fresh parsley
0.5 tsp salt (optional)
0.25 tsp ground allspice
0.25 tsp nutmeg
1 lb (454 g) ground skinless turkey breast
0.5 lb (227 g) lean ground pork
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tsp vegetable oil

How to prepare

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and bread crumbs; let it stand for 5 minutes.
Add the onion, parsley, salt, allspice, and nutmeg; mix well.
Add the meats and stir with a fork until thoroughly combined.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Sprinkle flour on a piece of waxed paper and place it next to the bowl of meat.
Shape the meat into 48 meatballs, approximately 1 tbsp each.
Lightly coat each meatball with flour and place them on a baking sheet.
Set the baking sheet aside.
In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tsp of oil.
Add half of the meatballs and cook until they are browned all over, approximately 5 minutes.
Cover the skillet and continue cooking the meatballs until the meat is no longer pink, about 20 – 25 minutes, turning them occasionally (refrigerate the remaining meatballs).
Transfer the cooked meatballs to a bowl, cover them, and keep them warm.
Remove any small pieces of meat from the skillet.
Repeat step 3 with the remaining meatballs.

Variations

Substitute ground beef or chicken for the turkey and pork mixture.
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to refrigerate the meat mixture before shaping the meatballs to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Lightly coating the meatballs with flour before cooking helps to create a crispy outer layer.

- Cooking the meatballs in batches ensures that they cook evenly and brown nicely on all sides.

- To keep the meatballs warm while cooking in batches, place them in a covered bowl or dish.

Serving Suggestions

Swedish Meatballs are traditionally served with lingonberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pickled cucumbers. They can also be enjoyed with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Use a nonstick skillet to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

- Cook the meatballs over medium heat to ensure they cook through evenly.

- Cover the skillet while cooking the meatballs to help retain moisture and prevent them from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute almond milk for regular milk for a dairy-free option.

- Use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the meat mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to shape and cook the meatballs.

- Cook the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Swedish Meatballs on a platter with lingonberry sauce drizzled over the top. - Garnish the meatballs with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. - Arrange the meatballs on a bed of mashed potatoes for a classic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Swedish Meatballs with a glass of red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot.

- Serve the meatballs with a side of crusty bread and butter for a complete meal.

- Enjoy the meatballs with a side of lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the meatballs in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Swedish Meatballs contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Swedish Meatballs contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Swedish Meatballs contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Swedish Meatballs contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Swedish Meatballs are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

Swedish Meatballs contain dairy (milk) and wheat (bread crumbs).

Summary

Swedish Meatballs are a balanced meal option, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Swedish Meatballs are a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With a rich history and versatile recipe variations, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them with lingonberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and a side of pickled cucumbers for a traditional Swedish meal experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl visiting my aunt in Sweden. She was a wonderful cook, and I loved spending time in her kitchen, watching her prepare delicious meals.

One day, as she was making Swedish meatballs for dinner, I asked her if I could help. She smiled and handed me a mixing bowl, showing me how to combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices. As I worked the mixture with my hands, she told me the story of how she learned to make Swedish meatballs from her own grandmother.

According to my aunt, the recipe had been passed down through the generations in our family. Each woman had added her own twist to it, making it a truly unique and special dish. As I shaped the meatballs and placed them on a baking sheet, I felt a sense of connection to my ancestors, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down for centuries.

When the meatballs were cooked and served with creamy gravy and lingonberry sauce, I knew that I had found a new favorite dish. The combination of flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I couldn't wait to learn how to make it myself.

After my trip to Sweden, I returned home with the recipe for Swedish meatballs in hand. I practiced making them over and over again, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until I had perfected the dish. I shared the recipe with my own mother, who added her own touch to it, making it even more delicious.

Over the years, I have continued to make Swedish meatballs for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews. Each time I make them, I think of my aunt and the tradition that she passed down to me. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and carry on the legacy of my family's culinary heritage.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing a batch of Swedish meatballs for dinner, I can't help but reflect on the journey that brought me to this moment. I am proud to have learned this recipe and to have shared it with those I love. And as I take a bite of the savory, flavorful meatballs, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us together in the present.

In the end, it is not just the taste of the meatballs that I cherish, but the memories and traditions that they represent. I am grateful for the opportunity to carry on this legacy and to share the joy of Swedish meatballs with others. And as I finish my meal, I am filled with a sense of satisfaction and contentment, knowing that I have honored my family's history in the best way I know how – through food.