Frikadeller: The Delicious Danish Meatballs You Should Try

Servings: 7 Total Time: 50 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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Frikadeller are traditional Danish meatballs, a mixture of minced pork, beef, eggs, flour, garlic, and onions, seasoned with salt and pepper. The mixture is then formed into oval shapes or scooped with a spoon and pan-fried in butter until golden brown. 

These unique meatballs are considered Denmark’s unofficial national dish, served hot or warm over boiled potatoes and Danish gravy.

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Frikadeller: The Delicious Danish Meatballs You Should Try

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 35 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 50 mins
Servings: 7
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Frikadeller are traditional Danish meatballs, a mixture of minced pork, beef, eggs, flour, garlic, and onions, seasoned with salt and pepper. The mixture is then formed into oval shapes or scooped with a spoon and pan-fried in butter until golden brown. 

Background and Origin

Frikadeller can be traced back to the 17th century. The dish is believed to be influenced by the Italian fritatella and the French fricandeau. Both words refer to a fried dish. These meatballs were a way to make good use of inexpensive meat in the kitchen.

The method of preparing frikadeller spread through Europe due to culinary influences, becoming a simple dish you can prepare at home or for any large gathering.

You can enjoy frikadeller anywhere, especially in Denmark and Germany, where the recipe may differ. 

Ingredients

Instructions

Video
  1. How to Prepare Frikadeller
    1. In a bowl, mix the minced pork with salt, pepper, powdered nutmeg, minced garlic, and shredded onions. 
    2. Add the eggs and mix thoroughly. Add the milk and flour and mix.
    3. In a saucepan, melt the butter on medium heat. Scoop a tablespoon-sized portion of meatball into the hot pan and fry until they’re golden brown.
    4. Turn and fry all sides until they’re cooked.
    5. Serve with boiled potatoes and Danish sauce. 
    Video Credit: MTB Cooking (EN)--YouTube

Note

Tips for Preparing Frikadeller

  • You can serve frikadeller with bread, garnished with beetroots and mustard.
  • Serve cold as desired with vegetables and boiled potatoes.

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Frikadeller are more than just meat patties—they're a beloved symbol of Danish home cooking and tradition. Their enduring popularity speaks to the dish’s comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and the deep nostalgia they evoke in Danish culture.

Keywords: Frikadeller
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