Swedish meatballs: How IKEA's dish became a global sensation

The meatballs at IKEA are much more than just a dish served while shopping. Their unique taste and simplicity of preparation have made them a cult favourite for many visitors. The store offers not only classic meatballs made from beef and pork but also alternative versions to satisfy diverse tastes. The famous "köttbullar" are primarily juicy balls soaked in a delicious sauce that everyone enjoys regardless of age.

You don't have to go to a furniture store to enjoy Swedish meatballs. A simple recipe allows you to prepare these treats in your own kitchen. There are various options, from standard meatballs to vegan alternatives. The recipe is mainly based on beef mixed with a bit of pork, spices, and cream sauce. An essential element is also the addition of lingonberry jam, which gives the dish its characteristic flavour.

Ingredients for meatballs:

                                  
• 500 grams of ground beef,
• 320 grams of ground pork,
• 1 onion,
• 2 cloves of garlic,
• Less than a cup of breadcrumbs,
• 1 egg,
• 4 tablespoons of milk,
• Salt and pepper to taste,
• Olive oil for frying.

Ingredients for the sauce:

                          
• 2 tablespoons of butter,
• 4 tablespoons of wheat flour,
• 160 ml of beef broth,
• 160 ml of vegetable broth,
• 160 ml of heavy cream,
• 2 teaspoons of soy sauce,
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.

Preparation:

                          
1. Finely chop the onion and press the garlic.
2. In a large bowl, combine the beef and pork, add the onion, garlic, milk, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
3. Form small balls from the mixture. Arrange them on a large plate and refrigerate for about 2 hours.
4. Preheat the oven to 175°C, using the top-bottom mode. Place the meatballs in an ovenproof dish and bake for 30 minutes. Once cooled, set aside.
5. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a pan, then add the flour. Fry for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
6. Add the beef and vegetable broths, soy sauce, mustard, and cream to the pan. Cook until thickened.
7. Serve the meatballs topped with cream sauce, mashed potatoes, peas, and lingonberry or cranberry jam.

With these tips, you can prepare delicious and juicy meatballs at home, reminiscent of those from the popular chain.