Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cooked beef
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp curry powder
Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
2. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
3. Add the cooked beef, onion, celery, carrot, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.
4. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
6. Beat the eggs in a bowl.
7. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
8. Dip each ball in the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat.
9. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
10. Fry the bitterballen in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
11. Drain on paper towels.
12. In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and curry powder.
13. Serve the bitterballen with the curry ketchup on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Oil for frying: 375°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 24 bitterballen
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120 per bitterbal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted for cooked beef
- Chicken broth can be substituted for beef broth
- Gluten-free flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be substituted for regular breadcrumbs
Variations:
- Add chopped mushrooms to the mixture for a vegetarian version
- Use different spices, such as cumin or paprika, for a different flavor profile
- Serve with different dipping sauces, such as aioli or mustard
Tips and tricks:
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before forming into balls for easier handling
- Use a cookie scoop to form uniform balls
- Fry the bitterballen in small batches to prevent overcrowding and uneven cooking
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover bitterballen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a platter with the curry ketchup in a small bowl in the center
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve with a cold beer or a glass of red wine
Suggested side dishes:
- French fries or potato wedges
- Mixed greens salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too thin, add more flour
- If the mixture is too thick, add more broth
- If the bitterballen are falling apart during frying, chill the mixture for longer before forming into balls
Food safety advice:
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying
- Use caution when frying to prevent burns
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and discard any that have been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours
Food history:
- Bitterballen are a popular Dutch snack, traditionally served with mustard for dipping
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, meaty, with a hint of nutmeg and curry
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack
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Region: Dutch