Czech-style Curry Meatballs

Ingredients

In this Czech adaptation of Boller i karry, the Danish meatballs are transformed with the addition of Czech spices and flavors. The original Danish dish is typically milder in taste, while the Czech version incorporates more robust and aromatic spices, such as paprika and cumin. The curry sauce in the Czech-style version is also creamier and slightly spicier, providing a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from the original. We alse have the original recipe for Boller i karry, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (235ml) heavy cream 1 cup (235ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons curry powder 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown.
5. 5.
   Gradually whisk in the beef broth, heavy cream, curry powder, and tomato paste. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
6. 6.
   Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the curry sauce for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. 7.
   Serve the Czech-style Curry Meatballs over rice or potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Use lean ground beef for healthier meatballs. If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for ground beef with a slightly higher fat content.
• Curry powder — Adjust the amount of curry powder according to your preference for spiciness. Add more for a bolder flavor or reduce it for a milder taste.
• Tomato paste — Look for high-quality tomato paste to enhance the depth of flavor in the curry sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the sauce during the simmering process.
• To add a touch of sweetness, you can stir in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the curry sauce.
• Experiment with different types of curry powder to find your preferred flavor profile.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, allowing the flavors to meld even further.

Serving advice

Serve the Czech-style Curry Meatballs hot over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs in a shallow serving dish, allowing the curry sauce to pool around them. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for an appealing visual contrast. Serve with a side of rice or potatoes, and consider adding a sprig of parsley as a final touch for an elegant presentation.