If you’re craving a hearty and flavorful meal, look no further than Frikadellen—Germany’s take on the humble hamburger. These savory, pan-fried patties are a beloved comfort food in Germany, often served with a side of potatoes or enjoyed in a sandwich. Made from a blend of ground pork and beef, Frikadellen are incredibly juicy and flavorful, thanks to a secret ingredient: soaked bread. This simple yet ingenious addition helps keep the patties tender and moist. Packed with the savory taste of onions, garlic, mustard, and a mix of aromatic spices, these German hamburgers are far from ordinary. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just want to indulge in something deliciously satisfying, Frikadellen are sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Juicy and Tender Patties
Thanks to the soaked bread and the mix of pork and beef, these Frikadellen are incredibly moist and tender. They’re the perfect balance of juicy and savory.
2. Flavor-Packed Ingredients
From the caramelized onions to the garlic and mustard, the combination of ingredients creates a rich, aromatic flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
3. Easy to Make
This recipe may sound fancy, but it’s actually quite simple. All you need is some ground meat, a few pantry staples, and a little bit of time for frying.
4. Versatile Serving Options
Frikadellen can be served in various ways—whether as a meal on its own with potatoes or in a sandwich or bun for a more casual bite. The possibilities are endless!
5. Perfect for Meal Prep
You can easily make a batch of Frikadellen ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few days. They also freeze beautifully, making them a great option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Ground pork and beef (a mix of the two adds richness and flavor)
- Bread (soaked in milk to keep the patties juicy)
- Onion (adds sweetness and depth when finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced for a flavorful punch)
- Egg (binds the ingredients together)
- Mustard (adds a tangy kick)
- Spices (salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram for authentic flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for a pop of color and freshness)
Variations
- Herb Variations: While marjoram is traditional, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Cheese-Stuffed Frikadellen: For an indulgent twist, stuff the patties with a bit of cheese, like gouda or cheddar, for a melty surprise inside.
- Vegetarian Version: You can substitute the meat with a combination of lentils, chickpeas, and grated vegetables to create a vegetarian version of Frikadellen.
- Spicy Frikadellen: Add some finely chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice up your Frikadellen.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by soaking a few slices of bread in milk. Let them sit for about 5-10 minutes until softened. Once soaked, squeeze out any excess milk and tear the bread into small pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Meat and Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork and beef with the soaked bread, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, mustard, and the spices (salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram). Mix everything together until it’s well combined and slightly sticky. You can use your hands for the best results.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Once the mixture is ready, divide it into equal portions and shape them into round, flat patties. You can make them as thick or as thin as you like, but traditionally, they’re about the size of a palm.
Step 4: Fry the Patties
Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the Frikadellen and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to flip them gently to avoid breaking.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Soaked Bread: The bread is key to keeping your Frikadellen moist and tender. Make sure to squeeze out excess milk so the texture remains firm.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground pepper and paprika will give a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground versions.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just enough to combine. Overmixing can make the patties tough.
- Adjust the Heat: If the Frikadellen are browning too quickly, lower the heat to ensure they cook through without burning on the outside.
How to Serve
Frikadellen are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a classic German meal, serve them with roasted potatoes, sauerkraut, or a side of green beans. You can also enjoy them in a sandwich, tucked into a warm bun with mustard and pickles, or even served with a side of potato salad for a perfect picnic meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Frikadellen can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to warm them through.
Freezing
To freeze Frikadellen, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for a few hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat frozen Frikadellen, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use only one type of meat (pork or beef)?
Yes, you can make Frikadellen using just pork or just beef, but the combination of both creates the ideal flavor and texture.
2. Can I make these without bread?
While bread is a traditional ingredient, you can substitute it with breadcrumbs or oatmeal for a slightly different texture. Soaking the bread or oatmeal in milk is still recommended for moisture.
3. How do I prevent the Frikadellen from falling apart while frying?
Make sure the mixture is well-combined, and don’t handle it too much. The egg helps bind the ingredients together, so as long as it’s mixed well, the patties should stay intact.
4. Can I make Frikadellen ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them before cooking and fry them straight from the freezer.
5. Can I use a different herb instead of marjoram?
Yes, marjoram is a classic herb used in German cuisine, but you can substitute it with thyme, oregano, or even basil for a different flavor profile.
6. Can I bake these instead of frying them?
While frying is the traditional method, you can bake Frikadellen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. You may not get the same crispy texture, but they’ll still be delicious.
7. What kind of bread is best for soaking?
Any type of soft bread, like white bread or a baguette, works best. Avoid crusty bread, as it won’t soak properly.
8. Can I add cheese to the Frikadellen?
While not traditional, you can definitely add small cubes of cheese like cheddar or gouda to the meat mixture for a melty surprise inside the patties.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Frikadellen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for later.
10. Can I serve Frikadellen with sauces?
Frikadellen can be served with a variety of sauces, including mustard, ketchup, or a creamy mushroom sauce, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
Authentic German Frikadellen are a delightful twist on the classic hamburger, offering a savory, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a mix of ground pork and beef, soaked bread for tenderness, and aromatic spices like marjoram and mustard, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve them in a variety of ways, from a classic German dinner to a casual sandwich, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this German classic!