Kjøttkaker are a classic Norwegian comfort food, often enjoyed during family dinners or special occasions. These hearty, flavorful meatballs are made from a simple mixture of ground beef and pork, seasoned with traditional spices like allspice and nutmeg, then fried and simmered in a rich brown gravy. Served with boiled potatoes, peas, and lingonberry sauce, Kjøttkaker is a comforting, delicious meal that embodies the essence of Norwegian home cooking.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making authentic Kjøttkaker from scratch, with tips on achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Whether you’re looking to recreate a beloved Norwegian dish or try something new, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients for Making Kjøttkaker
The ingredients for Kjøttkaker are straightforward, using a combination of ground meats and pantry staples to create rich flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Meatballs (Kjøttkaker)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef: The main meat component for the meatballs.
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork: Adds tenderness and richness to the meat mixture.
- 1/2 cup milk (120ml): Helps keep the meatballs moist.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Binds the mixture and gives structure to the meatballs.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meat mixture together.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and flavor to the meatballs.
- 1 teaspoon salt: For seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper: For a little spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice: A traditional Norwegian spice for warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle sweetness and warmth.
For the Gravy (Brun Saus)
- 2 tablespoons butter: For richness in the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth (480ml): The base for the brown gravy.
- 1/2 cup milk (120ml): To make the gravy smooth and creamy.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
For Serving
- Boiled potatoes: The classic side for serving with Kjøttkaker.
- Peas or green beans: A fresh vegetable side.
- Lingonberry sauce or cranberry sauce: For a sweet-tart contrast.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Kjøttkaker
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- Soak the Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the liquid and soften.
- Mix the Meat: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, and soaked breadcrumbs. Add the chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Shape and Cook the Meatballs
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the meat mixture into round, slightly flattened meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. You should get about 12-15 meatballs from the mixture.
- Fry the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Gravy (Brun Saus)
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet where you cooked the meatballs, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Make the Roux: Once the butter is melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly to make a smooth paste (this is called a roux). Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, until it turns a light golden brown, which adds flavor to the gravy.
- Add the Beef Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, until the gravy thickens slightly.
- Add Milk and Season: Stir in the milk to make the gravy creamy, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in the Gravy
- Add the Meatballs: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
- Simmer and Cook Through: Let the meatballs simmer in the gravy over low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to soak up some of the rich sauce. Stir occasionally to coat the meatballs in the gravy.
Step 5: Serve the Kjøttkaker
- Serve with Potatoes and Vegetables: Plate the Kjøttkaker alongside boiled potatoes and your choice of vegetables, such as peas or green beans.
- Add Lingonberry Sauce: Serve with a spoonful of lingonberry sauce (or cranberry sauce), which adds a sweet-tart contrast to the savory meatballs and gravy.
- Enjoy: Serve your Kjøttkaker hot, and enjoy this comforting and hearty Norwegian dish!
Tips for Making the Perfect Kjøttkaker
1. Use a Mix of Beef and Pork
Using a combination of ground beef and ground pork adds richness and keeps the meatballs moist. The pork’s fat content balances the leaner beef, creating a juicier texture.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meat
To keep your meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated, as overworking the meat can lead to dense and tough meatballs.
3. Sear the Meatballs for Extra Flavor
Frying the meatballs in butter until golden brown adds a delicious crust and enhances their flavor. Be sure to brown them on both sides before adding them to the gravy to create a more flavorful dish.
4. Thicken the Gravy Properly
When making the gravy, it’s important to cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) for a minute or two to eliminate the raw flour taste. Stirring constantly as you add the broth helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, rich sauce.
5. Adjust Seasoning to Taste
Allspice and nutmeg are the traditional spices used in Kjøttkaker, but you can adjust the amount based on your taste. These spices add warmth and depth to the meatballs without overpowering the dish.
Variations of Kjøttkaker
1. Gluten-Free Kjøttkaker
For a gluten-free version of Kjøttkaker, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free flour in the gravy.
2. Creamy Kjøttkaker with Sour Cream
For an even richer version, stir a few tablespoons of sour cream into the gravy at the end of cooking. This adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the savory meatballs.
3. Chicken or Turkey Kjøttkaker
If you prefer a lighter version, you can make Kjøttkaker using ground chicken or ground turkey instead of beef and pork. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as poultry cooks faster than beef and pork.
FAQs About Making Kjøttkaker
1. Can I make Kjøttkaker ahead of time?
Yes, Kjøttkaker can be made ahead of time. You can fry the meatballs and prepare the gravy, then store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the gravy, add the meatballs, and simmer until warmed through.
2. Can I freeze Kjøttkaker?
Yes, Kjøttkaker freeze well. After frying the meatballs, let them cool completely and freeze them in an airtight container. You can also freeze the gravy separately. When you’re ready to eat, thaw both components and reheat them on the stove, simmering the meatballs in the gravy until heated through.
3. What can I serve with Kjøttkaker?
Traditionally, Kjøttkaker is served with boiled potatoes, peas, and lingonberry sauce. However, you can also serve them with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans.
4. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
To help the meatballs hold their shape, make sure the meat mixture is well-combined and the breadcrumbs are fully soaked. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the meatballs so they can brown evenly and stay intact.
5. Can I use ground lamb for Kjøttkaker?
Yes, you can substitute ground lamb for beef or pork if you prefer a different flavor. The lamb’s natural richness works well with the traditional spices like allspice and nutmeg.
Conclusion
Kjøttkaker is a delicious and comforting Norwegian dish that brings together the warmth of spiced meatballs with the richness of a creamy brown gravy. Whether you’re enjoying it during a family dinner or making it for a special occasion, this traditional meal is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Serve it with classic sides like boiled potatoes and lingonberry sauce for an authentic Norwegian experience. By following this guide, you’ll be able to create your own batch of Kjøttkaker at home, bringing the flavors of Norway to your table.