There’s something profoundly comforting about recipes passed down through generations. They connect us to our roots and bring back cherished memories of family gatherings, laughter-filled kitchens, and the love that goes into every homemade dish. One such treasure from my grandmother’s recipe collection is the traditional German meat patties, known as Frikadellen.
Frikadellen are a staple in German cuisine, celebrated for their rich flavor and versatility. These savory patties, made from a blend of ground meats, fresh vegetables, and a medley of spices, were a favorite at family dinners and festive occasions. My grandmother’s version of Frikadellen holds a special place in my heart. I remember the anticipation of watching her expertly mix the ingredients and shape the patties, filling the kitchen with the delightful aroma of home-cooked goodness.
Recently, I decided to recreate this beloved dish, and the result was nothing short of delightful. The flavorful patties, with their perfectly browned exterior and tender, juicy interior, took me back to those warm, nostalgic moments in my grandmother’s kitchen. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can evoke such strong emotions and memories.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my grandmother’s treasured recipe for Frikadellen. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make. Whether you’re looking to connect with your heritage, or simply in search of a hearty and flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home as well. Let’s dive into this culinary journey and bring a piece of German tradition to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
• Add the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, red bell pepper, grated carrot, minced garlic, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and chopped parsley to the breadcrumb mixture.
2. Mix the Meat:
• Using your hands, mix all the ingredients until well combined. Make sure the vegetables and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
3. Form the Patties:
• Divide the meat mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into oval patties. Make a few shallow cuts on the top of each patty to help them cook evenly.
4. Cook the Patties:
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the skillet.
• Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. If needed, you can finish cooking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.
5. Serve:
• Serve the Frikadellen hot with a side of pickled cabbage, potatoes, or your favorite German side dishes.
Tips:
• For an extra flavor boost, you can add a tablespoon of finely chopped dill or chives to the meat mixture.
• These patties can also be grilled or baked instead of pan-fried.
Enjoy this taste of traditional German cuisine! If you have any specific variations or additions from your grandmother’s recipe, feel free to share them!
