Kjøttkaker: Norwegian Meatballs with Rich Brown Gravy and Lingonberry Sauce

Kjøttkaker is a traditional Norwegian dish, synonymous with comfort food in the Scandinavian region. These savory meatballs are often served with a rich brown gravy, boiled potatoes, and a side of lingonberry sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for those cold, wintry nights when you crave something warm and filling.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs (Kjøttkaker):
– 500g ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 50ml milk
– 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon allspice
– 1 tablespoon butter, for frying

For the Brown Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 500ml beef stock
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lingonberry Sauce:
– 200g lingonberries (fresh or frozen)
– 100g sugar
– 50ml water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, milk, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
3. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs. Fry them until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Make the Brown Gravy:
1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and stir continuously to make a roux, cooking until it turns a light golden brown.
3. Gradually add the beef stock while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare the Lingonberry Sauce:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the lingonberries, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the berries have burst, and the sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.

4. Serve:
1. Place the cooked meatballs back into the gravy to warm them through.
2. Serve the Kjøttkaker hot, with boiled potatoes and a generous spoonful of lingonberry sauce on the side. Enjoy!

This Norwegian classic will surely bring a touch of Scandinavian warmth to your dining table.