Easy Swedish Meatballs

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Alton Brown’s Swedish Meatballs: A Savory Delight with a Touch of Nordic Flair

Step into the culinary world of Alton Brown, renowned chef and host of the hit cooking show “Good Eats.” Today, we invite you to embark on a flavorful journey to Sweden as we present Alton Brown’s timeless recipe for Swedish Meatballs. With its rich history, comforting flavors, and a touch of Nordic flair, this dish has captivated taste buds across the globe.

Originating in Sweden, these tender, bite-sized meatballs have become an iconic symbol of Scandinavian cuisine. Alton Brown, known for his meticulous approach to cooking and scientific understanding of food, has crafted a recipe that strikes the perfect balance of traditional authenticity and modern techniques.

At the heart of this recipe lies a blend of ground meats, typically a combination of beef and pork, seasoned to perfection. These succulent morsels are then gently simmered in a luscious, creamy gravy, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors that will leave you craving more.

What sets Alton Brown’s Swedish Meatballs apart is the careful attention to detail in every step of the process. From the precise measurements to the innovative cooking methods, this recipe ensures consistent and exceptional results each time you prepare it. Alton’s passion for educating his audience shines through as he explains the “whys” behind each ingredient and technique, demystifying the culinary process and empowering home cooks.

One of the signature features of Swedish Meatballs is the addition of warming spices such as nutmeg, allspice, and sometimes even ginger. These aromatic flavors infuse the meatballs, creating a comforting sensation that is both familiar and exciting.

To complete the experience, these delectable meatballs are traditionally served with lingonberry jam, a sweet and tangy condiment that perfectly complements the savory notes of the dish. And don’t forget the classic pairing of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles, providing a delightful base for soaking up every drop of the flavorful gravy.

Alton Brown’s Swedish Meatballs recipe is not merely a dish to be enjoyed; it’s an invitation to explore the cultural heritage and culinary wonders of Sweden. So, gather your ingredients, sharpen your culinary skills, and get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that is sure to become a favorite on your dining table!

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Swedish Meatballs

Swedish Meatballs

This is a great Swedish Meatballs recipe to wow your family. Serve with either mash potatoes or rice. An excellent meal for your family.

  • Author: Alton Brown
  • Prep Time: :30
  • Cook Time: :25
  • Total Time: :55
  • Yield: 4 1x
  • Category: Entree
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: Swedish

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 slices fresh white bread
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 3 tablespoons clarified butter, divided
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • A pinch plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3/4 pound ground chuck
  • 3/4 pound ground pork
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees F.
  2. Tear the bread into pieces and place in a small mixing bowl along with the milk. Set aside.
  3. In a 12-inch straight sided saute pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter. Add the onion and a pinch of salt and sweat until the onions are soft. Remove from the heat and set aside.
  4. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the bread and milk mixture, ground chuck, pork, egg yolks, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, black pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and onions. Beat on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes.
  5. Using a scale, weigh meatballs into 1-ounce portions and place on a sheet pan. Using your hands, shape the meatballs into rounds.
  6. Heat the remaining butter in the saute pan over medium-low heat, or in an electric skillet set to 250 degrees F. Add the meatballs and saute until golden brown on all sides, about 7 to 10 minutes. Remove the meatballs to an ovenproof dish using a slotted spoon and place in the warmed oven.
  7. Once all of the meatballs are cooked, decrease the heat to low and add the flour to the pan or skillet. Whisk until lightly browned, approximately 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add the beef stock and whisk until sauce begins to thicken. Add the cream and continue to cook until the gravy reaches the desired consistency. Remove the meatballs from the oven, cover with the gravy and serve.

Notes

  • Meatball Tips

  • Be Gentle – If the meatballs are packed too tightly and compactly, they’ll turn out tough, rubbery, and chewy. Oil your hands so that the mixture won’t stick to them and gently and quickly form the meatballs.
  • Keep Things Cold – You want to keep the fat from melting and breaking down before you cook the meatballs, so keep your meat and ingredients as cold as possible. Make the mixture in a chilled bowl, and if you are adding precooked ingredients like onions, let them cool down completely before adding.
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