Köttbullar – Sweden’s Beloved Meatballs

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Köttbullar – Sweden’s Beloved Meatballs

Köttbullar, known worldwide as Swedish meatballs, is a dish that has become a symbol of Swedish comfort food. These small, tender meatballs are seasoned with warm spices like allspice and nutmeg, then browned to perfection and served with a creamy gravy, tangy lingonberry sauce, and smooth mashed potatoes. Originally a humble dish, Köttbullar has been embraced by Home Cook worldwide, thanks to easy food recipes shared on platforms like Cookpad. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that brings a touch of Swedish tradition to kitchens across the globe.

The beauty of Köttbullar lies in its balance of flavors: the savory meatballs, creamy sauce, sweet-tart lingonberries, and buttery mashed potatoes come together in perfect harmony. This dish has been a part of Swedish culinary heritage for centuries, and it continues to be loved by generations. With so many food recipes available on Cookpad, Home Cook worldwide can recreate this classic dish at home, sharing the joy of Swedish cuisine with friends and family.



Classic Swedish Köttbullar (Meatballs) Recipe

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

  • 500 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 tsp allspice
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp butter (for frying)

For the gravy:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

  • Lingonberry sauce
  • Mashed potatoes

Method:

  1. Prepare the meatballs:
    In a bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes. Add the grated onion, ground meat, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix gently until combined—do not overmix. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  2. Cook the meatballs:
    Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the gravy:
    In the same pan, melt butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add beef broth while whisking, then add cream and soy sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Finish the dish:
    Return meatballs to the pan, coat with gravy, and heat through. Serve with mashed potatoes and a dollop of lingonberry sauce.

FAQs about Köttbullar

1. Can I make Köttbullar ahead of time?
Yes! Many Home Cook worldwide on Cookpad prepare the meatballs and gravy in advance. They store well in the fridge and can be reheated gently before serving.

2. Can I freeze Köttbullar?
Absolutely. Cooked Köttbullar can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost and reheat with the gravy for an easy meal.

3. Is lingonberry sauce necessary for Köttbullar?
It’s traditional, but if you can’t find lingonberry sauce, Home Cook worldwide often substitute with cranberry sauce or leave it out.

4. Can I make Köttbullar gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour in your food recipes. Many Home Cook worldwide on Cookpad share gluten-free versions that are just as delicious.


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