Chef RV Swedish Meatballs

Ingredients for Swedish Meatballs

• 250g ground beef (lean)
• 250g ground pork
• 2 whole eggs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 60g (½ cup) Panko bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of thyme
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Black pepper, to taste

White Sauce

• 2 shallots, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 240g (1 cup) cream
• 500g (2 cups) chicken or beef stock

It's Time to Cook: Let's Get Rolling

Mixing the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, flour, bread crumbs, salt, thyme, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Forming the Meatballs

Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 24 equal-sized meatballs. Place them on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.

Cooking the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.

Preparing the Sauce

Remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add the chopped shallots and butter. Sauté the shallots until they are soft and translucent.

Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour turns slightly golden.

Slowly pour in the cream and chicken or beef stock while continuing to whisk. Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Bringing It All Together

Add the meatballs back into the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe makes 6 servings, with each serving being 4 meatballs and approximately 200g. The nutrition information per serving is as follows:

• Calories: 575
• Total Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 190mg
• Sodium: 980mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 35g

Side Dishes and Accompaniment Ideas for Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, but you can also pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. Add a dollop of lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutes: Adapting to Your Pantry

If you can't find some of the ingredients listed in the recipe, don't worry! Here are some substitutions you can use:

• Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef or pork for a leaner alternative.
• You can use regular bread crumbs instead of Panko bread crumbs, though Panko provides a lighter texture.
• For a dairy-free option, replace the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Swedish Meatballs

• To ensure even cooking, try to keep the meatballs uniform in size.
• You can also bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes instead of frying them.
• For a smoother sauce, you can strain the cooked shallots before adding the flour.
• To make a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or milk instead of cream.
• You can freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Last Words: Savoring the Flavor

Now that you have the scoop on how to create Chef RV's scrumptious Swedish meatballs, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This delicious, heartwarming dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends or for satisfying your own cravings. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them completely before frying or baking.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Swedish meatballs, substitute gluten-free flour and gluten-free Panko bread crumbs. Also, ensure that the soy sauce and chicken or beef stock you use are gluten-free.

Can I cook the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them?

Absolutely! You can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

What if I don't have lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce?

While lingonberry jam and cranberry sauce complement Swedish meatballs, they are not essential. You can enjoy the dish without them or try serving the meatballs with another fruit preserve or chutney of your choice.

How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

Leftover Swedish meatballs and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.