Kjøttkaker, or Norwegian meatballs, are a staple in Norwegian cuisine. These savory meatballs are typically made with a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with a mixture of spices, and served with a rich brown gravy. They are often accompanied by boiled potatoes, peas, and lingonberry jam, creating a hearty and comforting meal. Here’s a traditional recipe to bring a taste of Norway to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 250 g (0.5 lb) ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the finely chopped onion, bread crumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the Meatballs:
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Gravy:
- In the same pan, add the butter for the gravy. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the cooked meatballs to the pan with the gravy. Simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Serve the kjøttkaker hot, accompanied by boiled potatoes, peas, and lingonberry jam for a traditional Norwegian meal.
Tips for Perfect Kjøttkaker:
- Even Browning: Make sure to brown the meatballs evenly by turning them frequently during cooking.
- Gravy Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less beef broth as needed.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Some prefer a hint more nutmeg or ginger for a spicier kick.
Cultural Significance:
Kjøttkaker are a cherished part of Norwegian culinary tradition, often enjoyed at family gatherings and special occasions. They reflect the hearty and comforting nature of Norwegian home-cooked meals, embodying the essence of Scandinavian hospitality and warmth.
Making kjøttkaker at home allows you to experience the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Norway. This traditional recipe, with its savory meatballs and rich gravy, is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with classic accompaniments for an authentic Norwegian dining experience.