Meatballs are a beloved food around the world, and it’s no wonder why. With a variety of meat types and ingredients that can be incorporated, meatballs offer an all-encompassing flavor that is both satisfying and delicious.
Here are some of the most popular meatballs from around the world.
1. Kjottkaker, Norway
Norway may be known for its seafood, but Kjottkaker, also known as meatloaf, is a beloved dish by locals. These meatballs are sturdy, about the size of a fist, and are made with ground meat and various other ingredients.
2. Frikadeller, Denmark
Meat is an essential part of Danish cuisine, and Frikadeller is a classic national dish. These meatballs are deep-fried and then pan-fried with lemon juice. They are typically served with mashed or whole potatoes.
3. Köttbullar, Sweden
IKEA has made Köttbullar famous, as they are served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam at their stores. These meatballs are made with ground meat mixed with chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, cream, white pepper, and a little gravy.
Swedish meatballs come in many flavors, including lamb, chicken, elk, vegetarian, and more.
4. Polpette, Italy
In Italy, garlic, cheese, parsley, and herbs are added to meatballs to make them the size of golf balls. They can be served on their own or added to a thick soup. Meatball pasta is a classic Italian dish, with sweet and sour tomato sauce.
5. Königsbeger Klopse, Germany
Germany is known for its sausages, but their meatballs are just as delicious. Königsbeger Klopse is a favorite home-cooked dish of German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
These meatballs are made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and lemon zest and cooked directly in water. They are served with a creamy caper sauce, potatoes, and pickled beets.
6. Albondigas, Spain
Spanish meatballs are made with chicken mixed with various spices and then stewed in a thick tomato sauce or other sauce. They are often served as a snack and are a popular dish in Spain.
7. UK meatballs
UK meatballs are made with livestock offal, including heart and liver, mixed with onion, herbs, and spices. They are wrapped in slices and are a favorite food among rural people. They are typically served with gravy, mashed potatoes, and beans.
8. Koftedes, Greece
Koftedes are Greek meatballs and are a signature dish of the Mediterranean diet. They are often served as an appetizer and are included in Meze platters. These meatballs are fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside and are served with tomato and tzatziki.
Meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish enjoyed around the world. From Norway to Greece, there are endless variations of meatballs that can satisfy any palate.
