Danish Meatballs, or “Frikadeller,” are a beloved comfort food in Denmark, known for their savory, tender texture and rich flavor. Served with a simple pan gravy, these meatballs make for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners. Made with a blend of ground pork and beef, and seasoned with traditional spices, they are pan-fried to golden perfection. The accompanying pan gravy adds a smooth, creamy finish, making this dish irresistible when paired with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
For the Pan Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Shape and Fry the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, round meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Pan Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden brown. Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the gravy is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them to coat. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or vegetables on the side.
These Danish Meatballs with Pan Gravy are a comforting and flavorful meal that brings a taste of Danish tradition to your table. Enjoy!
