Description
Frikadellen are traditional German pan-fried meat patties, similar to meatballs or hamburgers. They’re made with a mix of ground meat, soaked bread, onions, and seasonings, then pan-fried until golden and crisp on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
Ingredients
- 2 slices white bread (crusts removed)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably German-style)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons plain breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Place the bread slices in a bowl with the water and let them soak until soft, about 5 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture and break into small pieces.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the chopped onions until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Let them cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked bread, sautéed onions, ground meat, egg, parsley, mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined. If the mixture is too wet, add breadcrumbs.
- Form the mixture into patties about the size of your palm (makes around 6–8).
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Fry the Frikadellen in batches for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of beef and pork for a more traditional flavor.
- Frikadellen can be served hot or cold—great for picnics or sandwiches.
- Add a splash of milk to the bread if needed for extra moisture.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
