Swedish Meatballs
Classic Swedish meatballs served with mashed potatoes, cream sauce, lingonberries, and pickled cucumber.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
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While often considered a quintessential Swedish dish, some historians suggest that the recipe for Swedish meatballs may have been brought to Sweden by King Charles XII in the early 18th century, possibly originating from Turkey during his exile. Over time, the dish was adapted and refined using local ingredients and culinary traditions, evolving into the beloved version we know today.
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Swedish meatballs are deeply ingrained in Swedish culture, representing a sense of home, comfort, and tradition. They are a staple at holiday gatherings, family dinners, and are famously served at IKEA restaurants worldwide, making them an internationally recognized symbol of Swedish cuisine.
Christmas Julbord
Swedish meatballs are a crucial component of the traditional Swedish Christmas smorgasbord, or Julbord, representing a cherished family tradition.
Everyday Comfort Food
Beyond festive occasions, Swedish meatballs are a popular everyday meal, often served as a quick and satisfying dinner for families.
IKEA's Global Influence
IKEA's widespread offering of Swedish meatballs in their restaurants has significantly contributed to the dish's global recognition and popularity.
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Swedish meatballs offer a savory and comforting flavor profile, balanced with subtle sweetness and richness.
The meatballs themselves are typically made from a mixture of ground beef and pork (sometimes veal), breadcrumbs soaked in milk or cream, finely chopped onions, and spices like allspice and white pepper. The creamy sauce is made from beef broth, cream, flour (for thickening), soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and often a touch of lingonberry jam for sweetness. The lingonberries offer a tart counterpoint to the richness of the meatballs and sauce, while the pickled cucumber provides a refreshing acidity.
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Soaking the Breadcrumbs
Soaking the breadcrumbs thoroughly in milk or cream is essential for creating tender and moist meatballs. Don't skip this step!
Gentle Handling
Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs. Handle the mixture gently to keep them light and airy.
Browning the Meatballs
Browning the meatballs in butter before simmering them in the sauce adds depth of flavor and a beautiful golden-brown color.
Fresh Herbs
Add finely chopped fresh parsley or dill to the meatball mixture for a burst of fresh flavor.
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