Soulful Swedish Meatballs

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Swedish meatballs are given a soul food twist. The original recipe is modified by incorporating soul food flavors and ingredients. The spices used in the meatball mixture are adjusted to include soul food staples like paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Additionally, the traditional lingonberry sauce is replaced with a rich and creamy gravy, reminiscent of soul food gravies. This fusion of flavors creates a unique and delicious dish that combines the best of Swedish and soul food cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Upplandskubb, so you can check it out.

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1/2 cup (120ml) breadcrumbs 1/2 cup (120ml) breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 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
• 4 cups (950ml) beef broth 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 480 kcal / 2010 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 14g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 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.
5. 5.
   Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. 6.
   Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
7. 7.
   Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. 8.
   Serve the Soulful Swedish Meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and pork — Use a mixture of lean ground beef and ground pork for the best flavor and texture.
• Breadcrumbs — If you don't have breadcrumbs on hand, you can substitute with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
• Paprika and cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of these spices according to your preferred level of spiciness.
• Heavy cream — For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• Fresh parsley — The parsley adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish. If you don't have parsley, you can substitute with chopped chives or green onions.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the meatballs extra tender, soak the breadcrumbs in milk before adding them to the meat mixture.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meatball mixture.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and add it to the gravy while simmering.
• Serve the meatballs with lingonberry jam on the side for a traditional Swedish touch.
• Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Swedish Meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice. The meatballs and gravy pair perfectly with the starch, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded plate.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Soulful Swedish Meatballs on a platter, drizzle the creamy gravy over them, and garnish with fresh parsley. For an elegant touch, you can sprinkle some paprika or cayenne pepper on top of the meatballs. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or rice, and enjoy the beautiful contrast of colors and flavors.