Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe is a traditional dish that combines the rich flavors of meatballs with a savory gravy. These meatballs are typically made from a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, shaped into small, bite-sized balls. The gravy, often made from a blend of beef or chicken broth, cream, and seasonings, adds a creamy and velvety texture to the dish.
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The versatility of this recipe allows for variations in the choice of meat, such as beef, pork, or a combination of both. The flavors can be enhanced with the addition of spices like nutmeg or allspice, and herbs like parsley or dill. This dish can be served as a main course with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and vegetables, or as an appetizer for gatherings and parties.
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In terms of health benefits, Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe can provide a good source of protein from the meat and the added nutrients from the seasonings and herbs. However, it’s important to note that the specific nutritional content may vary depending on the ingredients used and the cooking method employed. It’s always advisable to consider individual dietary needs and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Overall, Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe offers a delicious combination of flavors, a versatile preparation that can be enjoyed in various settings, and the potential for nutritional benefits when incorporated into a balanced diet.
How To Make Our the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
Ingredients (8 Servings)
2 pounds beef ground meat (a mixture of beef and pork)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Instructions
1. Preparing the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the mixture.
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and allspice.
Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
After chilling, take the mixture out of the refrigerator and shape it into small, bite-sized meatballs.
2. Browning the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add a small amount of cooking oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the surface.
Place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides.
Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Making the Gravy:
In the same skillet used for browning the meatballs, melt some butter over medium heat.
Sprinkle in some flour and whisk it into the melted butter to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the beef or chicken broth while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
Add any additional seasonings, such as salt and pepper, to taste.
Stir the gravy mixture until it thickens to the desired consistency.
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and simmer them in the gravy for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Serving the Norwegian Meatballs:
Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish.
Spoon the gravy over the meatballs, covering them evenly.
Serve the Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy hot as a main course with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and vegetables.
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed for the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the meatball ingredients and mix them thoroughly.
Skillet: Used for browning the meatballs and making the gravy.
Whisk: Used to stir and mix the gravy ingredients.
Serving dish: Used to present the Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy.
Spatula: Used for flipping and transferring the meatballs.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure the ingredients.
Cutting board and knife: Used for chopping onions and mincing garlic.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the meatball mixture before shaping.
Best Way to Store Leftovers From the the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature.
b. Transfer the leftover Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy to an airtight container.
c. Make sure the container is suitable for refrigerator storage.
d. Seal the container tightly to prevent air exposure and maintain freshness.
e. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
f. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
g. Reheat the leftovers thoroughly before consuming.
Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation
Use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop to portion the meatball mixture evenly.
Wet your hands with cold water before shaping the meatballs to prevent sticking.
To test the seasoning of the meatball mixture, cook a small portion and adjust the seasoning as needed.
For a smoother gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
Prepare the meatball mixture in advance and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to develop.
If the meatball mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to achieve the desired consistency.
Side Dishes and Desserts For the the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they pair well with the rich flavors of the meatballs and gravy.
b. Lingonberry sauce: A traditional accompaniment that adds a sweet and tart element to the dish.
c. Steamed vegetables: Light and fresh, they provide a contrasting texture and color to the meal.
d. Pickled cucumbers: The tanginess of pickles complements the savory flavors of the meatballs and adds a refreshing touch.
How To Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Arrange the cooked meatballs on a serving dish.
b. Spoon the flavorful gravy over the meatballs, covering them generously.
c. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, if desired.
d. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy hot, as a main course.
e. Accompany the dish with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
f. Provide serving utensils, such as a serving spoon or tongs, for guests to help themselves.
Substitutions For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
1. Vegan Options: For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Substitute the ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives like tempeh or seitan.
b. Replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute.
c. Use plant-based milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, instead of regular milk.
d. Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats preparing the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
e. Swap butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for browning the meatballs.
f. Use vegetable broth or mushroom broth instead of beef or chicken broth for the gravy.
g. Opt for a vegan cream alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream, in the gravy.
2. Gluten-Free Options: For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs.
b. Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour, such as rice flour or almond flour, for the gravy.
c. Ensure that all spices and seasonings used are gluten-free and free from any contamination for the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
d. Verify that the beef or chicken broth used for the gravy is gluten-free or use homemade gluten-free broth.
e. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce in the meatball mixture.
f. Confirm that any pre-made ingredients, such as lingonberry sauce, are gluten-free or make your own.
g. Check the labels of any condiments or sauces used as side dishes to ensure they are gluten-free.
3. Vegetarian Options: For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Replace the ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives like soy crumbles or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
b. Omit the eggs or use an egg replacer like mashed tofu or mashed banana.
c. Substitute milk with plant-based milk, such as almond milk or oat milk.
d. Use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce in the meatball mixture.
e. Ensure that any pre-made or store-bought ingredients, like lingonberry sauce, are vegetarian-friendly.
f. Consider adding additional vegetables, such as finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini, to the meatball mixture.
g. Use vegetable broth or mushroom broth instead of beef or chicken broth for the gravy.
4. Mediterranean Diet Options:
a. Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork for the meatballs.
b. Incorporate whole wheat breadcrumbs or whole wheat panko for added fiber in the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
c. Enhance the flavors with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
d. Opt for olive oil instead of butter for browning the meatballs and making the gravy.
e. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with a side of Greek salad or tabbouleh.
f. Accompany the dish with whole grain couscous or quinoa instead of mashed potatoes.
g. Consider adding roasted red peppers or Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist.
5. Keto Diet Options: For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for the meatball mixture.
b. Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork to maintain the fat content.
c. Incorporate high-fat ingredients like cream cheese or grated cheddar cheese in the meatball mixture.
d. Use almond milk or heavy cream instead of regular milk for the gravy for the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
e. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with steamed low-carb vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower.
f. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese as a topping.
g. Choose low-carb condiments or sauces as side options, such as sugar-free lingonberry sauce.
6. Heart Healthy Diet Options:
a. Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork for the meatballs.
b. Incorporate whole wheat breadcrumbs or ground oats for added fiber in the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
c. Replace butter with olive oil or canola oil for browning the meatballs and making the gravy.
d. Use low-sodium or homemade broth to reduce the salt content in the gravy.
e. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
f. Consider using reduced-fat or fat-free dairy alternatives in the meatball mixture and gravy.
g. Opt for homemade lingonberry sauce without added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
7. Paleo Options: For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or coconut flour in the meatball mixture.
b. Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk.
c. Incorporate paleo-friendly spices and herbs like garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs.
d. Substitute arrowroot powder or tapioca flour for thickening the gravy instead of regular flour.
e. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with roasted vegetables or a side of cauliflower rice.
f. Ensure that any pre-made ingredients, like lingonberry sauce, are paleo-friendly or make your own.
g. Use homemade bone broth or paleo-friendly broth in the gravy.
8. Low Carb Options:
a. Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour in the meatball mixture.
b. Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork to maintain flavor and moisture.
c. Incorporate high-fat ingredients like cream cheese or grated cheddar cheese in the meatball mixture.
d. Use full-fat dairy or dairy alternatives for the gravy with the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
e. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with a side of steamed low-carb vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
f. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese as a topping.
g. Use sugar-free lingonberry sauce or make your own using a low-carb sweetener.
9. Whole30 Options: For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed compliant nuts/seeds in the meatball mixture.
b. Use compliant broth and canned coconut milk or almond milk for the gravy with the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
c. Incorporate Whole30-approved spices and herbs for flavoring the meatball mixture and gravy.
d. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with a side of steamed vegetables or a mixed green salad.
e. Choose sugar-free and additive-free condiments or sauces as accompaniments.
f. Ensure that any pre-made or store-bought ingredients, like lingonberry sauce, are Whole30 compliant or make your own.
g. Use ghee or clarified butter instead of regular butter for browning the meatballs and making the gravy.
10. Weight Watchers Options:
a. Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork for the meatballs to reduce points.
b. Incorporate whole wheat breadcrumbs or ground oats to add fiber and maintain satiety.
c. Use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk for the gravy to reduce points in the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
d. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with a side of steamed vegetables or a mixed green salad for zero points.
e. Opt for sugar-free or reduced-sugar lingonberry sauce to reduce points.
f. Use light or reduced-fat versions of dairy products in the meatball mixture and gravy to reduce points.
g. Adjust the portion size of the meatballs and gravy to fit within your allocated points.
11. Low Fat Options: For the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
a. Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork for the meatballs.
b. Replace regular milk with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk.
c. Use low-sodium broth to reduce the salt content in the gravy for the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
d. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with steamed vegetables or a side salad to keep it light.
e. Use a non-stick skillet with minimal oil for browning the meatballs.
f. Opt for low-fat yogurt or sour cream as a topping instead of higher-fat options.
g. Avoid using butter or excessive amounts of oil in the meatball mixture and gravy.
12. Vegetable Variations:
a. Replace the ground meat with a combination of finely chopped mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian twist.
b. Incorporate grated carrots or zucchini into the meatball mixture for added moisture and nutrients.
c. Use vegetable broth or mushroom broth instead of beef or chicken broth for the gravy.
d. Serve the Norwegian Meatballs with a side of roasted root vegetables or stir-fried mixed vegetables.
e. Consider adding spinach or kale to the meatball mixture for added greens for the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe.
f. Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or basil, to enhance the vegetable flavors.
g. Use a variety of colorful vegetables, like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, as a garnish for a vibrant presentation.
FAQ About the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
What are Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy?
The Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe is a traditional dish that combines flavorful meatballs with a savory gravy. The meatballs are typically made from a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, while the gravy is made from a blend of broth, cream, and seasonings. It’s a popular and comforting dish in Norwegian cuisine.
How can I make Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe at home?
To make the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe at home, you can follow a recipe that includes ingredients like ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, and a combination of seasonings. The meatball mixture is shaped into small balls and then browned in a skillet. The gravy is prepared separately by combining broth, cream, and seasonings. The meatballs are then simmered in the gravy for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve them hot with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and vegetables.
Can I make vegetarian Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe?
Yes, you can make vegetarian Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy by substituting the ground meat with plant-based alternatives like soy crumbles, tempeh, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth in the gravy. Adjust the seasonings and flavors accordingly to suit your taste preferences. This allows you to enjoy the flavors of the dish while adhering to a vegetarian diet.
Is the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
The Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipecan be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in the meatball mixture. Additionally, you can replace regular flour with gluten-free flour or alternative thickeners like arrowroot powder or tapioca flour in the gravy. It’s important to ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free and free from any cross-contamination.
Is the Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe a healthy option?
The Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe can be a part of a balanced diet. The nutritional content of the dish will depend on the specific ingredients used and the cooking method employed. By using lean ground meat, opting for whole grain breadcrumbs, and incorporating nutrient-rich herbs and spices, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish. Additionally, you can choose low-fat or dairy-free alternatives for the gravy to reduce the overall fat content. It’s always advisable to consider individual dietary needs and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Final Thoughts
The Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors. These meatballs, made from a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, are complemented by a savory gravy. The dish can be served as a main course alongside mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and vegetables, or enjoyed as an appetizer for gatherings. The recipe allows for variations in meat choice and spices, adding to its versatility.
From a nutritional standpoint, the dish provides a good source of protein, with potential health benefits when incorporated into a balanced diet. Explore the rich taste and versatility of Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe for a satisfying meal.
Norwegian Meatballs with Gravy Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the meatball ingredients and mix them thoroughly.
- Skillet: Used for browning the meatballs and making the gravy.
- Whisk: Used to stir and mix the gravy ingredients.
- Serving dish: Used to present the Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy.
- Spatula: Used for flipping and transferring the meatballs.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure the ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife: Used for chopping onions and mincing garlic.
- Refrigerator: Used to chill the meatball mixture before shaping.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef ground meat - a mixture of beef and pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
Instructions
Preparing the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the mixture.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- After chilling, take the mixture out of the refrigerator and shape it into small, bite-sized meatballs.
Browning the Meatballs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a small amount of cooking oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the surface.
- Place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides.
- Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Gravy:
- In the same skillet used for browning the meatballs, melt some butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in some flour and whisk it into the melted butter to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the beef or chicken broth while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add any additional seasonings, such as salt and pepper, to taste.
- Stir the gravy mixture until it thickens to the desired consistency.
- Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and simmer them in the gravy for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serving the Norwegian Meatballs:
- Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish.
- Spoon the gravy over the meatballs, covering them evenly.
- Serve the Norwegian Meatballs w Gravy hot as a main course with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and vegetables.
