Description
German Frikadellen shine as classic comfort meat patties from hearty German cuisine. Savory ground beef blends with onions and herbs, creating crispy-edged delights perfect for family dinners that transport you straight to a cozy German kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- ⅔ pound (300 grams) ground beef
- ⅓ pound (150 grams) ground pork
Aromatics and Herbs:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 kaiser roll (or any white bread roll)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably German or Dijon)
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- Immerse the kaiser roll in a water bath, allowing it to soften for approximately 10 minutes. Gently squeeze out excess liquid and delicately crumble the bread into fine fragments.
- Transfer the bread remnants into a spacious mixing vessel, combining ground beef, ground pork, finely diced onion, egg, fresh parsley, tangy mustard, aromatic marjoram, vibrant paprika, salt, and black pepper. Thoroughly amalgamate the ingredients until a uniform mixture emerges.
- Moisten your palms to prevent adhesion, then sculpt the meat blend into circular patties. Aim for a diameter of 3-4 inches with a modest thickness, ensuring consistent shape and even cooking potential.
- Warm butter or oil in a substantial skillet over medium temperature. Carefully position the patties, maintaining adequate spacing between each. Sear for approximately 5 minutes per side, cultivating a rich golden-brown exterior while guaranteeing complete internal cooking. Verify doneness by confirming an internal temperature of 160F (70C).
- Extract the frikadellen from the cooking surface, allowing a brief resting period. Present these traditional German delicacies alongside classic accompaniments like potato salad, tangy sauerkraut, or creamy mashed potatoes. For versatility, they can also be enjoyed chilled within sandwiches or as a standalone snack with a dollop of robust mustard.
Notes
- Bread Soaking Tip: Use slightly stale kaiser rolls for better texture and absorption, preventing soggy patties.
- Meat Blending Technique: Mix ingredients gently with your hands to maintain a light, tender texture without overworking the meat.
- Temperature Control: Ensure medium heat when frying to achieve a crispy golden-brown exterior without burning the patties.
- Dietary Adaptations: Swap ground meats with plant-based alternatives like Beyond Meat for a vegetarian version, or use lean turkey for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg