Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked beef
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Gouda cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot for frying
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
For the Bitterballen:
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Add the chopped beef, onion, parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Once the mixture has cooled, shape it into small balls.
7. Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
8. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
9. Fry the bitterballen in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
10. Remove the bitterballen from the oil and drain on paper towels.
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Add the grated Gouda cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Serve the bitterballen with the creamy cheese sauce on the side.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
5. Temperature:
Oil for frying: 375°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 20-24 bitterballen, serving size depends on appetite.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 350mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Beef broth can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Chopped cooked beef can be substituted with cooked chicken or ham.
- Gouda cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese that melts well.
Variations:
- Instead of beef, use pork or veal for a different flavor.
- Add chopped mushrooms or truffle oil to the bitterballen mixture for a more earthy taste.
- Use a different type of cheese for the sauce, such as cheddar or Parmesan.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the bitterballen mixture is completely cooled before shaping into balls to prevent them from falling apart.
- Use a cookie scoop or melon baller to make uniform-sized balls.
- To make the bitterballen ahead of time, shape them into balls and freeze until ready to fry.
- Serve the bitterballen with a side of mustard for added flavor.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover bitterballen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the bitterballen in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the bitterballen on a platter with the creamy cheese sauce in a small bowl on the side.
Garnishes:
Garnish the platter with chopped parsley or chives for added color.
Pairings:
Pair the bitterballen with a cold beer or a glass of red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the bitterballen with a side of fries or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bitterballen mixture is too dry, add a little more broth or milk to moisten it.
- If the bitterballen fall apart while frying, the mixture may not have been cooled enough or the balls may be too big.
Food safety advice:
Make sure the bitterballen are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
Food history:
Bitterballen are a popular Dutch snack that originated in the 17th century. They are traditionally served with mustard and are often enjoyed with a cold beer.
Flavor profiles:
The bitterballen have a savory, meaty flavor with a crispy breadcrumb coating. The creamy cheese sauce adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the bitterballen as an appetizer or snack at a party or gathering.
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Region: Dutch