Name: Authentic German Frikadellen
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef and pork mix; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika (optional); Vegetable oil, for frying

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Introduction

There’s something comforting about a hearty meal that brings back fond memories. German cuisine has a way of doing just that, especially with its rich flavors and simple ingredients. One dish that stands out is a beloved German classic, known for its savory taste and satisfying bite. These delicious patties, often referred to as German hamburgers, are not only easy to make but are a staple in many households. They’re called Frikadellen.

Creating authentic German Frikadellen at home opens a door to a delightful, warm experience that can be shared with friends and family. The blend of ground beef and pork, coupled with fresh herbs and spices, makes for a meal that you’ll want to prepare time and time again.

Why Make This Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that elevates your dinner table, then Frikadellen is an excellent choice. They embody the essence of German comfort food and are versatile enough to fit into your everyday meals or special occasions. The blend of meats ensures a juicy taste, while the simple seasonings provide an authentic taste that transports you straight to Germany with every bite.

Additionally, making Frikadellen can be a fun, engaging activity in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, prepping food for a few days ahead, or wanting to impress your friends with something different, this dish has you covered. Each patty is a canvas ready for your personal touch, sparking conversations and delightful memories around the dining table.

Moreover, this recipe is quite forgiving for beginners. Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you can follow it easily and achieve delicious results. Embrace the wonderful aromas and the joy of bringing a traditional German meal into your home.

How to Make Authentic German Frikadellen

Making authentic German Frikadellen is straightforward, requiring just a bit of preparation and a handful of ingredients. This easy dish showcases the beauty of German cooking—a focus on quality ingredients combined with a little technique.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef and pork mix
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions:

Begin by sautéing the onions in a small pan with a little oil. Heat them over medium heat until they soften, which should take about five minutes. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the mixture.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork mix with the breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onions, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and paprika if you choose to use it. Mix everything until just combined. It’s important not to overwork the meat, as this can make the patties dense.

Once your ingredients are mixed, it’s time to shape them into patties. Use your hands to form the mixture into equal-sized patties, approximately 3/4 inch thick, ensuring they’re uniform helps them cook evenly.

For cooking, heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the pan without overcrowding. Let them cook for five to seven minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color, which gives a lovely crust while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.

Once cooked, remove the Frikadellen from the pan and allow them to drain on paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil. Serve the patties warm, and enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen.

How to Serve Frikadellen

Frikadellen can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for any meal. One of the most popular ways is to present them simply on a plate, alongside traditional sides such as potato salad, sauerkraut, or steamed vegetables. These sides bring a nice balance to the rich flavor of the patties.

You can also serve Frikadellen as a sandwich. Adding a bun, some fresh lettuce, and a dollop of mustard or ketchup creates a delightful handheld meal, perfect for picnics or casual gatherings.

For a cozy evening, serve them with a hearty gravy and mashed potatoes for a lovely comfort meal. This creates a hearty dish, making it an excellent choice for family dinners in chilly weather.

Pair these patties with a light salad for a fresh contrast or a simple offering of crusty bread to soak up the juices. The options are endless, and each provides a unique twist on your dining experience.

How to Store Frikadellen

Storing Frikadellen is also easy, helping you to enjoy them over several days. After cooking, let the patties cool down to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

If you want to prepare them in advance, you can also form the patties and freeze them before cooking. Lay the uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container and they can be stored for up to three months.

To cook frozen Frikadellen, there’s no need to thaw them. Just pop them directly into a heated frying pan, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time until they are fully cooked through.

Tips to Make Frikadellen

Use Quality Meat: The flavor of Frikadellen greatly depends on the quality of the meat. Opt for fresh ground beef and pork mix from your local butcher for the best results.
Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a lovely flavor to these patties. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or chives, but avoid using dried herbs as they won’t provide the same freshness.
Let the Mixture Rest: Allowing the meat mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before shaping the patties helps to let the breadcrumbs soak up moisture, resulting in softer patties.
Test a Small Patty: If unsure about seasoning, cook a small test patty first. This allows you to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste before cooking the entire batch.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking, be careful not to overcrowd the pan as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Work in batches if necessary.

Variation

While the traditional recipe is delightful, there are various ways to add a twist to your Frikadellen.

Cheese-Stuffed Frikadellen: Incorporate a small cube of cheese within each patty for a cheesy surprise. Cheddar or Gouda works wonderfully.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy version that brings warmth and excitement.
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the meat for a plant-based mix or chickpea patty for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Herbed Frikadellen: Experiment with other herbs such as dill or basil in place of parsley to create a different flavor profile that suits your taste.

FAQs

Can I make Frikadellen ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the mixture and form the patties in advance. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. Alternatively, freeze them before cooking for future convenience.
What can I serve with Frikadellen?
Frikadellen pair well with many sides, including potato salad, sauerkraut, or a fresh garden salad. You can also enjoy them in a sandwich with some fresh vegetables and sauces.
How do I know when the Frikadellen are cooked?
They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. A meat thermometer can be useful; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Creating authentic German Frikadellen at home allows you to explore the delightful flavors of German cuisine right in your kitchen. Each step brings you closer to crafting a comforting meal that can be cherished and shared. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the warmth of cooking these lovely patties, sure to become a family favorite.

Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe (German Hamburgers)

Authentic German Frikadellen

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

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