Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Swedish Meatballs are a classic Scandinavian dish featuring a delightful blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with aromatic spices like allspice. These small, flavorful meatballs are pan-fried to a golden brown perfection. The dish is completed with a rich and creamy gravy, made by combining a roux with broth and heavy cream. The result is a comforting and hearty meal, often served over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. For an authentic Swedish touch, you can enjoy them with lingonberry sauce on the side. This iconic dish is beloved not just in Sweden but around the world for its comforting flavors and charming presentation.
**Ingredients:**
*For the Meatballs:*
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 pound (225g) ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Butter or oil for frying
*For the Gravy:*
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lingonberry sauce (optional, for serving)
**Instructions:**
**Making the Meatballs:**
1. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, milk and egg. Let them soak for a few minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, soaked breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and ground allspice. Combine until well incorporated.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. In a skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Fry the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through. Work in batches if needed.
**Making the Gravy:**
1. In a medium pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously to create a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in the beef or vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens.
4. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
**Serving:**
1. Serve the Swedish Meatballs hot, topped with the creamy gravy.
2. Optionally, serve with lingonberry sauce on the side for a traditional Swedish touch.
Enjoy your homemade Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy, a comforting and flavorful dish that's sure to be a hit!