Swedish Meatballs

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
  • 250g (0.55 lbs) ground pork
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • 100g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs
  • 150ml (2/3 cup) milk
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Nutmeg and allspice to taste (optional)
  • Butter or oil for frying
• For the Gravy:
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 400ml (1 2/3 cups) beef broth
  • 100ml (1/2 cup) cream
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork.
   • Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and milk. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the breadcrumbs can absorb the milk, making the meatballs tender.
   • Beat in the egg, and season with salt, pepper, and optionally, nutmeg and allspice. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs:
   • With your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
   • Place the formed meatballs on a plate or tray. If the mixture is too sticky, you can wet your hands with some water to make it easier to handle.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   • In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat.
   • Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
4. Make the Gravy:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes until the mixture turns light brown.
   • Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
   • Add the cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   • Return the meatballs to the skillet with the gravy and coat them thoroughly.
   • Serve the Swedish meatballs hot with mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes and lingonberry jam on the side.