Corned Beef And Sauerkraut Balls
Savory corned beef and sauerkraut balls offer a crispy, flavorful snack with tender meat and tangy sauerkraut, perfect for parties or hearty appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop onions and parsley finely.
- Break corned beef into small chunks.
- Add corned beef to shortening and cook until onions are almost tender.
- Stir in sifted all-purpose flour.
- Add milk slowly, cooking and stirring constantly until mixture thickens.
- Add drained sauerkraut and dry mustard, then cool.
- Shape mixture into small cocktail-sized balls.
- Coat the balls with enough additional flour.
- Dip the coated balls into beaten egg.
- Finally, coat the balls with bread or cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 to 30 minutes or fry until crisp and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some garlic or spices like paprika into the mixture. If you don't have corned beef, leftover brisket or even a turkey alternative can work well. To make the frying process cleaner, use a deep-fryer or a pan with high sides. These corned beef and sauerkraut balls can be served as a delightful appetizer or snack at gatherings, similar to Beefy Biscuit Cups.
Serving Suggestions
These corned beef and sauerkraut balls make an excellent party appetizer. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, such as spicy mustard or a creamy ranch dressing. They pair beautifully with Zesty Baked Beans for a hearty meal or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover corned beef and sauerkraut balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can fry them again in a little oil for a crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corned Beef And Sauerkraut Balls contains roughly 889 calories, with 20g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (117% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 623mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze corned beef and sauerkraut balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked balls. If freezing uncooked, shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for sauerkraut?
If you're not a fan of sauerkraut, finely chopped pickles or coleslaw mix can provide a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, try using cooked cabbage mixed with a bit of vinegar for a different twist.
How can I make these balls healthier?
To make these corned beef and sauerkraut balls healthier, consider using leaner cuts of beef or turkey. You can also bake them instead of frying to reduce the fat content. Additionally, using whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs can add more fiber to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).