- **Beef Minced** - High-quality ground beef is the base ingredient that gives Swedish meatballs their rich flavor.
- **Onion, Finely Chopped** - Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatballs.
- **Milk** - A key ingredient for moist and tender meatballs; it also helps bind the mixture.
- **Breadcrumbs** - Soaked in milk, breadcrumbs add moisture and help with binding the meat mixture.
- **Egg(s)** - Enhances binding and contributes to a more compact meatball texture.
- **Salt and Pepper** - Essential for seasoning; use to taste or according to recipe preference.
- **Dijon Mustard** - Adds a tangy flavor that complements the beef and balances out the other ingredients.
- **Herbs (Optional)** - Such as parsley, thyme, or dill can be added for extra flavor; optional but recommended.
- **Vegetable Oil or Butter** - For frying the meatballs to achieve a golden brown exterior.
*Keywords: Swedish meatballs, beef minced, onion finely chopped, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, salt and pepper, Dijon mustard, herbs, vegetable oil or butter.*
Steps
### Swedish Meatballs Recipe: A Classic Beef Delight
**Keywords:** Swedish meatballs, beef meatballs, traditional meatballs recipe, homemade meatballs
Are you looking to bring a bit of Sweden into your kitchen? These classic Swedish meatballs are perfect for any special occasion or just a cozy night in. Follow these detailed steps and enjoy the rich flavors that make this dish a staple.
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#### **Ingredients:**
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons milk (optional, for binding)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Meat Mixture**
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined to avoid over-mixing, which can make the meatballs tough.
2. **Add Flour or Milk (Optional)**
- If you want a bit more structure to your meatballs, mix in 1 tablespoon of flour. For a smoother texture, use 3 tablespoons of milk as an alternative.
- Knead gently until everything is evenly distributed but still retains its crumbly texture.
3. **Shape the Meatballs**
- Using about 2 tablespoons of mixture for each meatball, shape into small balls. You should end up with around 16-20 meatballs depending on their size.
- Place them on a plate and cover with plastic wrap to keep moist while you prepare the sauce.
4. **Cook the Meatballs**
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and set aside on a wire rack to drain.
5. **Prepare the Sauce (Optional)**
- For an extra layer of flavor, make a simple tomato sauce: in the same skillet, add 1 cup of crushed tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add cooked meatballs back to the pan if you desire them to absorb the flavors.
6. **Serve**
- Serve your Swedish meatballs with a side of boiled potatoes, lingonberry jam, or a dollop of sour cream for dipping. Enjoy!
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**Tips:**
- For extra flavor, marinate the ground beef in a mixture of herbs and spices before shaping into balls.
- If you're serving these at a dinner party, consider preparing them a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
With these steps, you’ll be able to create delicious Swedish meatballs that are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your taste buds. Happy cooking!
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By following this SEO-friendly and structured recipe guide, you can easily make traditional Swedish meatballs with confidence, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.