Go Back

Danish Frikadeller Recipe

A flattened meatball made with beef and pork.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Danish
Keyword: frikadeller, meatballs
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground pork or mixture of pork and beef
  • 1 small onion finely minced or grated
  • cup milk
  • cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice

Instructions

  • Combine the ground pork (or pork and beef mixture) in a large mixing bowl with the finely minced or grated onion.
  • Mix the milk and breadcrumbs in a separate bowl, allowing the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk. This will help keep the frikadeller moist and tender.
  • Add the milk-soaked breadcrumbs, egg, flour, salt, pepper, and allspice (if using) to the meat and onion mixture. Use your hands to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until you have a cohesive and slightly sticky mixture.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture will make it easier to shape the frikadeller.
  • Once the mixture has chilled, take a handful of the meat mixture and form it into small, flattened meatballs. Aim for a size slightly smaller than a golf ball, as the frikadeller will expand slightly while cooking.
  • Heat a generous amount of butter or oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You want enough fat to cover the bottom of the pan.
  • Place the frikadeller in the pan, leaving space between them for easy flipping. Cook the meatballs on each side for 4-5 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. You may need to adjust the heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
  • Once cooked, transfer the frikadeller to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  • Danish frikadeller are traditionally served hot as a main course alongside boiled potatoes, gravy, and a selection of vegetables. They can also be served as an appetizer or on rye bread with pickles and remoulade.

Notes

Making Danish frikadeller is a relatively quick and straightforward process, making them an ideal dish for a delicious weeknight dinner or a special gathering with family and friends. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful taste of these traditional Danish meatballs!