IKEA Meatballs with Cream Sauce
A recipe that has captured the hearts of millions around the world, IKEA meatballs with cream sauce are a culinary experience that blends tradition with flavor. These meatballs, known for their soft texture and well-balanced flavors, are perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress guests. In the following, I will guide you step by step in preparing this delicious dish, providing you with useful tips and original variations to customize the recipe to your taste.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 250 g ground beef
- 250 g ground pork
- 1 egg
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 2 boiled and cooled potatoes
- 50 ml flour
- 2-3 tablespoons grated onion
- 4-5 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 100 ml cream
- 200 ml beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Soy sauce, to taste
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
Preparing the meatballs
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and sautéing it in a pan with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sautéing the onion will add a sweet note and an intense flavor to the meatballs. When the onion becomes lightly golden, remove it from the pan and add it to a large bowl.
2. Mashing the potatoes: Boil the potatoes with the skin until they become tender, then let them cool. Once cooled, peel and mash them, adding a little water to achieve a smooth consistency. They will provide a fine texture and moisture to the meatballs.
3. Combining the ingredients: In the bowl with the onion, add the ground beef and pork, egg, cream, mashed potatoes, flour, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well, using a spatula or your hands, to combine all the ingredients into a homogeneous mass.
4. Forming the meatballs: In a large pan, melt 300 g of butter. Using 2 tablespoons, take portions of the mixture and form meatballs the size of a golf ball. Place them on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
5. Frying the meatballs: Add the meatballs to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden and crispy on the outside. Once done, place them in a strainer to drain excess butter.
Preparing the sauce
6. Cooking the sauce: In the same pan, add water or beef broth and bring to a boil. In a bowl, mix the cream with the flour and gradually incorporate the mixture into the pan. Add soy sauce, seasoning with salt and white pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
Serving
7. Combining flavors: The meatballs are served hot, covered with the delicious cream sauce. I recommend a side of new potatoes, boiled with skin and peeled, which pair perfectly with the creamy sauce. Also, don't miss the chance to add a touch of sweetness using lingonberry jam, which brings a perfect contrast between sweet and savory.
Personal tip
If you want to add an extra flavor note, you can incorporate spices like nutmeg or allspice into the meat mixture. These will add depth to the taste.
Variations
- Vegetarian meatballs: Try replacing the meat with finely chopped mushrooms or a mix of vegetables.
- Cheese meatballs: Add feta or mozzarella cheese to the meat mixture for a creamier texture and rich flavor.
Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe offers a balance between the protein from the meat, the carbohydrates from the potatoes, and the healthy fats from the butter, being a hearty meal. Each serving contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the amount of sauce used. The meatballs are rich in protein and can be a good source of energy, making them ideal for a substantial dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use turkey meat?
Yes, turkey meat can be used as a lighter alternative with lower fat content.
2. How can I store the meatballs?
The meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A pale lager or a dry white wine pairs perfectly with IKEA meatballs. Also, an apple juice or fruit tea could be a refreshing choice.
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Enjoy every step of the process and savor the final result of these delicious meatballs with cream sauce. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: Ingredients: 250 g finely minced beef, 250 g finely minced pork, 1 egg, 200 ml liquid cream and a little water, 2 tablespoons half grated onion, 50 ml flour, 2 boiled and cooled potatoes, 4-5 tablespoons of butter, salt and pepper. Sauce ingredients: 100 ml cream, 200 ml beef broth or soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of flour, salt and white pepper.
