IKEA-style meatballs

by ExhaustedChef

Prep: 20 minsCooking: 20 minsServes 4

Instructions

Step 1
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and the breadcrumb-milk mixture.
- Mix everything together until well combined. You can use your hands or a spoon for this.
Step 2
Shape the Meatballs:
- Take a small amount of the meat mixture and roll it into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet or tray.
Step 3
Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 4
Make the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually add the beef or vegetable broth while continuing to whisk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the heavy cream and continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5
Serve:
- Pour the creamy gravy over the cooked meatballs.
- Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, traditionally with lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes, or with your favorite side dishes.

Recipe Story

In the culinary world, few dishes evoke both nostalgia and global recognition as effectively as the IKEA-style Swedish meatballs. These delectable spheres of seasoned ground meat have infiltrated kitchens and dinner tables worldwide, becoming synonymous with Scandinavian comfort food. But how did these humble meatballs gain such notoriety? Well, let me take you on a flavorful journey through the history and allure of this Swedish classic.

Born in the heart of Scandinavia, Swedish meatballs, or "köttbullar" as the locals call them, have a history dating back centuries. Originally, these meatballs were a product of resourcefulness, crafted from leftover meats to minimize waste. Over time, they evolved into a staple of Swedish cuisine, celebrated at family gatherings and feasts.

But it was in the mid-20th century when Swedish meatballs experienced a transformative moment that would make them an international sensation. Enter IKEA, the Swedish furniture giant that decided to incorporate food into its iconic blue-and-yellow stores. To satiate the appetites of weary shoppers, IKEA introduced these meatballs to their in-store cafes, forever cementing their status as a global culinary phenomenon.

What sets IKEA-style meatballs apart is their delightful blend of flavors. A mixture of ground beef and pork, mingled with hints of allspice and nutmeg, creates a harmonious symphony of taste. The meatballs are then lovingly simmered in a creamy gravy, adding richness and depth to each bite. It's a comfort food experience that transcends borders, appealing to the palates of people from all walks of life.

Beyond the deliciousness, IKEA-style meatballs hold a special place in our hearts because they remind us of home and the joys of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones. Whether enjoyed with lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes or in creative, modern renditions, these meatballs remain an enduring symbol of comfort, simplicity, and Scandinavian hospitality. So, next time you find yourself assembling flat-pack furniture, take a moment to savor the iconic IKEA meatballs and the rich history they bring to your plate.