Meat Balls(Kjottkaker)
Juicy meatballs with a rich blend of meats, bread crumbs, and spices, perfect for hearty meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread crumbs in milk; add minced onion, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and ground allspice; mix well.
- Add ground meats (round steak, veal, pork) and blend thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into large balls and brown well in butter.
- Add boiling water and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier meatball, consider adding finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini to the mixture. If you don't have veal, you can substitute with additional ground beef or even turkey for a leaner option. Adjust the spices to your taste; adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor, similar to what you might find in Flemish Carbonnades.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are delicious served over creamy mashed potatoes or with egg noodles. They pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving them with a rich sauce, similar to what you'd find in Red Beef Stroganoff, for a delightful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. They can also be reheated in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Balls(Kjottkaker) contains roughly 1398 calories, with 77g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (155% of the Daily Value), iron (99% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% 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 the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of cream?
If you're looking to reduce calories or dairy, you can substitute the cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that this may alter the richness of the meatballs slightly.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can cut one open to ensure it's no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
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).