Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe

Introduction

Authentic German Frikadellen are flavorful, juicy meat patties that are a beloved part of German cuisine. Made with ground meat, soaked bread, and a blend of spices, these pan-fried patties offer a tender texture and rich taste perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 slice stale white bread (or 1/2 cup breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow mustard)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground marjoram (optional)
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp oil or butter (for frying)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Soak the slice of stale bread in milk for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess milk and crumble the bread into small pieces. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked bread, onion, garlic, egg, mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, marjoram (if using), and parsley. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
3. Step 3: Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape each into a flat oval-shaped patty, about 1/2-inch thick.
4. Step 4: Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).
5. Step 5: Serve warm with potato salad, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for a juicier texture and richer flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• Try stuffing the patties with a small cube of cheese for a melty center.
• Use gluten-free bread or breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version.
• For vegetarian Frikadellen, substitute meat with mashed beans or lentils and keep the same seasonings.
• Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the patties tender and juicy.

Storage

Store leftover Frikadellen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. They also freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Frikadellen ahead of time?

Yes, Frikadellen can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. They taste great reheated or even served cold, making them perfect for meal prep or packed lunches.

What can I serve with Frikadellen?

Frikadellen pair wonderfully with traditional German sides like potato salad, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, or spätzle. They also make great sandwich fillings when served in a crusty roll with mustard and pickles.

Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe

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Authentic German Frikadellen are traditional pan-fried meat patties made from ground beef and pork mixture, seasoned with mustard, onion, garlic, paprika, and herbs. Soft and juicy with a crispy exterior, these patties are bound with soaked stale bread to ensure tenderness. They make a versatile meal served hot with classic German sides or cold as a sandwich filling or snack.

• Author: Jeannette
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: German

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat Mixture

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow mustard)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground marjoram (optional)
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

Binding Agent

• 1 slice stale white bread (or 1/2 cup breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 cup milk

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp oil or butter (for frying)

Instructions

1. Soak the Bread: Soak the slice of stale bread in milk for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out the excess milk and crumble the bread into small pieces. Set aside. This step ensures the patties stay moist and tender.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked bread, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, mustard, salt, black pepper, paprika, marjoram (if using), and chopped parsley. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough patties.
3. Shape the Patties: Divide the meat mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions. Shape each into a flat oval patty about 1/2-inch thick. This shape allows even cooking and contributes to the classic Frikadellen look.
4. Heat the Pan: Heat the oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The fat should be hot enough to sizzle when the patties are added but not smoking, to ensure a crispy crust without burning.
5. Fry the Patties: Place the patties in the skillet and fry for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety.
6. Serve Warm: Serve the Frikadellen immediately while warm, accompanied by traditional sides such as potato salad, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a hearty German meal.

Notes

• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for traditional flavor, but pure beef works fine too.
• Do not overmix the meat to keep patties tender and juicy.
• Adjust seasoning to taste; consider adding nutmeg for an aromatic variation.
• Frikadellen can be served hot or cold; cold leftovers are delicious with mustard or pickles.
• To make gluten-free Frikadellen, substitute bread with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or oats.
• For a healthier version, consider baking instead of frying, though frying provides the authentic texture.
• Try stuffing patties with cheese cubes for a melty surprise.

Keywords: German Frikadellen, pan-fried meat patties, traditional German recipe, Frikadellen recipe, meat patties, German cuisine, authentic Frikadellen