Discover the authentic taste of Swedish cuisine with our Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) recipe. These iconic meatballs are tender and flavorful, traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes and tangy lingonberry sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal, learn how to make these classic meatballs from scratch with our easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients:

- 500g ground beef

- 250g ground pork

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1 egg

- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

- 1/4 cup milk

- 1/4 cup cream

- 1/2 tsp ground allspice

- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 2 tbsp butter or oil for frying

For Serving:

- Lingonberry sauce

- Mashed potatoes

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: If you prefer to bake the meatballs, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, and cream. Season with ground allspice, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. 

Cook Meatballs: Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. If baking, place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Serve: Serve the Swedish meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce on the side. Enjoy your classic Swedish meal!

Note: For a more authentic experience, consider making homemade lingonberry sauce or buying it from a specialty store.

Nutritional values

Ground Beef (500g)

  - Calories: 250 kcal

  - Protein: 26g

  - Fat: 17g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:High in protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Choose lean cuts for lower fat content.

Ground Pork (250g)

  - Calories: 250 kcal

  - Protein: 25g

  - Fat: 20g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:Provides high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B6 and B12. Opt for lean pork for a healthier option.

Small Onion (1)

  - Calories: 40 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 9g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:Contains antioxidants and may aid in reducing inflammation.

Egg (1)

  - Calories: 70 kcal

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 5g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:Rich in protein, vitamins A, D, and B12, and healthy fats.

Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup)

  - Calories: 200 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 40g

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 2g

Benefits:Provides carbohydrates and can help bind the meatballs.

Milk (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: 30 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

Benefits:Good source of calcium and vitamin D.

Cream (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: 120 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 12g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:Adds richness and flavor; use in moderation due to high fat content.

Ground Allspice (1/2 tsp)

  - Calories: 3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp)

  - Calories: 3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:May have anti-inflammatory properties and improve digestion.

Salt and Black Pepper

  - Salt: High in sodium; use in moderation.

  - Black Pepper: Minimal calories; contains antioxidants.

Butter or Oil (2 tbsp)

  - Butter: 200 kcal

  - Oil: 240 kcal

Benefits:

  - Butter adds flavor but is high in saturated fat.

  - Oil (especially olive oil) offers healthier fat options.

For Serving:

Lingonberry Sauce

  - Calories: 30 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 8g

  - Sugar: 7g

Benefits:Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, adding a sweet and tangy flavor.

Mashed Potatoes

  - Calories: 214 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 35g

  - Protein: 4g

  - Fat: 8g

Benefits:Provides carbohydrates for energy; use healthy preparation methods (e.g., less butter or cream) for a balanced dish.

This combination of ingredients offers a hearty meal with balanced protein, carbohydrates, and some healthy fats. Enjoy your delicious meatballs with traditional accompaniments!