Swedish cuisine is a tapestry of flavors, with each dish bearing a unique tale. Among these culinary treasures, Köttbullar, affectionately known as Swedish meatballs, hold a special place. These delectable morsels, made from ground meat and breadcrumbs soaked in milk, are a source of pride in every Swedish kitchen. While the exact recipe may vary from household to household, one constant remains: these meatballs must be prepared with an ample dose of love.

Homemade Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup (45 g) day-old white breadcrumbs
  • 1¼ cup (300 ml) milk
  • 1½ lbs (680 g) ground beef, or a blend of ground beef and ground pork
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion (adjust to your preference)
  • ⅓ teaspoon (0.6 g) ground allspice
  • Salt and white pepper, to taste
  • Butter, for frying

Instructions

  1. Begin by placing the breadcrumbs in a bowl and gently pouring milk over them. Allow them to soak for approximately 5 minutes, letting the milk work its magic on the breadcrumbs, rendering them soft and pliable.
  2. Peel and grate the onion, infusing the mixture with its aromatic essence.
  3. In a spacious bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, grated onion, allspice, and a pinch of salt and white pepper. Mix these ingredients until they are harmoniously melded, creating a meatball mixture brimming with flavor.
  4. Shape the meat mixture into small, uniform balls, using either wet hands or wooden spoons. This step ensures that each meatball is crafted with care and precision.
  5. Heat a generous portion of butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat until it sizzles and dances. This rich, golden butter will be the canvas upon which your meatballs are transformed into savory delights.
  6. Carefully place the meatballs in the frying pan, taking care not to overcrowd them. Stir or gently shake the pan regularly to achieve an even, golden-brown sear on all sides.
  7. Once the meatballs have achieved a luscious, caramelized exterior, reduce the heat. Continue cooking for roughly 10 minutes, or until the meatballs reach your desired level of doneness. To ensure precision, you can use a meat thermometer, with the ideal temperature being approximately 160°F (70°C).

This delightful recipe yields approximately 45-60 meatballs, their quantity determined by your preferred size. Traditional Swedish meatballs may be enjoyed in various ways—without sauce, with a sumptuous thick gravy, or with a more delicate, thin brown gravy.

So, there you have it—the comforting embrace of homemade Swedish meatballs, a dish that transcends borders and fills your home with the warmth of tradition and love. Gather your ingredients, infuse your preparation with care, and savor the joy of this timeless Swedish classic.