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Authentic German Frikadellen Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 141 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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