Discover how to make Bitterballen, a beloved Dutch snack perfect for parties and gatherings. This recipe guides you through preparing deep-fried balls filled with a rich, savory beef or veal ragout. Ideal for those who enjoy crispy, flavorful appetizers. Easy-to-follow steps ensure you achieve the perfect texture and taste. Serve these delicious morsels with mustard for an authentic Dutch experience!

Ingredients:

For the Ragout:

 - 1 tablespoon butter

 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

 - 1 small onion, finely chopped

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 500g beef or veal, finely diced

 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

 - 1 cup beef or veal stock

 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme

 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika

 - Salt and pepper to taste

For the Coating:

 - 1 cup all-purpose flour

 - 2 large eggs, beaten

 - 2 cups breadcrumbs

 - Vegetable oil for fryingAuthentic Dutch Hutspot Stew

Instructions:

Prepare the Ragout:

  - In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.

  - Add the diced beef or veal and cook until browned on all sides.

  - Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes to form a roux.

  - Gradually add the beef or veal stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

  - Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer until the mixture thickens and the meat is tender, about 30 minutes.

  - Transfer the ragout to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours or overnight.

Form and Coat the Bitterballen:

  - Once the ragout is firm, use your hands or a spoon to shape it into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.

  - Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.

  - Roll each ball in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Bitterballen:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).

  - Fry the balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve:

  - Serve the Bitterballen hot with mustard for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Bitterballen as a delicious snack or appetizer at your next gathering!

Nutritional Values

1 Tablespoon Butter

  - Calories: 717

  - Fat: 81g

Benefits:

  - Adds richness and flavor.

  - Provides essential fatty acids and vitamins A, D, E, and K.

1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

  - Calories: 884

  - Fat: 100g

Benefits:

  - Contains monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy.

  - Provides antioxidants and vitamins E and K.

1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped

  - Calories: 40

  - Carbohydrates: 9g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fiber: 1.7g

Benefits:

  - Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds.

  - Adds flavor and aroma.

2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

  - Calories: 149

  - Carbohydrates: 33g

Benefits:

  - May have antibacterial and antiviral properties.

  - Adds a strong flavor and potential health benefits.

500g Beef or Veal, Finely Diced

  - Calories: 250

  - Protein: 26g

  - Fat: 17g

Benefits:

  - High in protein, essential for muscle repair.

  - Provides iron and B vitamins.

2 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour

  - Calories: 364

  - Carbohydrates: 76g

  - Protein: 10g

Benefits:

  - Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce.

  - Provides carbohydrates for energy.

1 Cup Beef or Veal Stock

  - Calories: 10

  - Protein: 1g

  - Sodium: 400mg

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and moisture.

  - Provides some protein and minerals.

1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme

  - Calories: 276

  - Carbohydrates: 63g

Benefits:

  - Adds a fragrant, earthy flavor.

  - Contains antioxidants and essential oils.

1/2 Teaspoon Paprika

  - Calories: 282

  - Carbohydrates: 54g

Benefits:

  - Adds color and a mild, sweet flavor.

  - Rich in vitamins A and C.

Salt and Pepper to Taste

Salt:

   - Sodium: 387mg

Benefits: Enhances flavor and seasoning.

Pepper:

   - Calories: 255

   - Carbohydrates: 64g

Benefits: Adds spice and may aid digestion.

1 Cup All-Purpose Flour

  - Calories: 364

  - Carbohydrates: 76g

  - Protein: 10g

Benefits:

  - Provides the base for the coating.

  - Adds texture and helps bind ingredients.

2 Large Eggs, Beaten

  - Calories: 70

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 5g

Benefits:

  - Provides high-quality protein and fats.

  - Helps bind the coating.

2 Cups Breadcrumbs

  - Calories: 350

  - Carbohydrates: 65g

Benefits:

  - Adds texture and a crispy coating.

  - Provides carbohydrates for energy.

Vegetable Oil for Frying

  - Calories: 884

  - Fat: 100g

Benefits:

  - Necessary for frying and creating a crispy texture.

  - Provides essential fatty acids.

This combination of ingredients creates a flavorful ragout with a crispy coating, balanced by the richness of butter and olive oil, and enhanced by herbs and spices. The coating ingredients ensure a crunchy texture, while the ragout provides a hearty, savory filling.