Description
Swedish Meatballs with Gravy
Savor every bite of these homemade Swedish meatballs smothered in luxurious gravy!
Ingredients:
400g beef mince
300g pork mince
1/2 cup cracker crumbs
1 egg white
1 small onion
1 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup double cream
1 tbsp olive oil
Steps:
Blend beef, pork, crumbs, egg white, and onion.
Roll into balls and fry in olive oil.
Heat chicken stock and double cream, stirring until thickened.
Add meatballs to the gravy for a final simmer.
A family favorite meal idea!
#MeatballMadness
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Finely grate the onion. In a large bowl, combine the beef mince, pork mince, cracker crumbs, egg white, and grated onion. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of allspice or nutmeg for authenticity. Mix with your hands until just combined—overmixing makes tough meatballs.
- With damp hands, roll the mixture into small, even balls, about one tablespoon each. This ensures they cook through evenly.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning gently to get a golden crust on all sides. They do not need to be cooked through at this stage. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken stock to deglaze, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the double cream. Simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Return all meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Cover and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and infused with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. For the classic Swedish presentation, serve them over a bed of buttery egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes. Lingonberry jam on the side is traditional and provides a perfect sweet-tart contrast. For a lighter option, try them with boiled new potatoes and a crisp cucumber salad. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.
How-to Summary
Combine meats, crumbs, onion, and egg. Form into balls and pan-sear. Create a creamy gravy in the same pan using stock and cream, then simmer the meatballs in the sauce until cooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only one type of meat? Yes, but for authentic flavor and texture, the pork-beef blend is ideal. Using all beef can result in denser meatballs.
What can I use instead of cracker crumbs? Panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs are excellent substitutes. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats.
How can I make the gravy thicker? If your gravy is too thin, create a slurry by mixing one teaspoon of cornflour with one tablespoon of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering gravy until it thickens.
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. Cook the meatballs and gravy, then store them combined in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if needed.
Can I freeze Swedish meatballs? Yes, they freeze very well. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat: This activates the proteins and leads to a tough, rubbery texture. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Making the meatballs too large: Larger balls will brown too much on the outside before cooking through. Aim for a one-tablespoon size.
- Crowding the pan while browning: This steams the meatballs instead of searing them. Fry in batches to ensure a proper crust.
- Boiling the gravy: After adding the cream, keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from separating or curdling. A gentle simmer is key.
Conclusion
Homemade Swedish Meatballs with Gravy are a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s far superior to any store-bought version. With this detailed guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and master the technique for tender meatballs and a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delicious results of your effort!
