Knigsberg meatballs (Knigsberger Klopse)

Königsberg Meatballs – a classic recipe with a memorable taste

Who doesn't love meatballs? These delicious little meatballs are loved all over the world, with each culture having its own unique variations. Königsberg meatballs, or "Königsberger Klopse", are a specialty with a rich history, blending the flavors of meat with a creamy, tangy sauce accented with capers. It is a recipe that will take you on a fascinating culinary journey and make you feel like a true chef in your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge your taste buds with this savory dish!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the meatballs:
- 500 g minced meat mix (preferably beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (about 1/4 teaspoon)
- 1 bay leaf
- 4-5 peppercorns
- 1 liter beef broth (preferably beef)

For the sauce:
- 40 g butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 600 ml beef broth
- 200 ml sour cream
- 50 ml white wine
- Juice of one lemon
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the meatballs

1. Start by combining the minced meat with the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic in a large bowl. Make sure all the ingredients are well integrated.

2. Add the egg, breadcrumbs, and mustard. These ingredients will help bind the mixture and add extra flavor.

3. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, which will bring warmth and complexity.

4. Mix all the ingredients well using your hands until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This step is essential to ensure a pleasant texture for the meatballs.

5. Form round meatballs about 4-5 cm in diameter. Make sure they are all the same size so they cook evenly.

6. In a large pot, bring the beef broth to a boil along with the bay leaf and peppercorns. These elements will add extra flavors to the meatballs.

7. Once the broth begins to boil, carefully add the meatballs. Let them simmer over medium heat until they rise to the surface, indicating they are cooked. This process takes about 10-15 minutes.

8. Once the meatballs are ready, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a prepared bowl.

Preparing the sauce

1. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. When it is completely melted and starts to bubble, add the flour. Whisk vigorously to form a roux, being careful not to burn it, as this will form the base of the sauce.

2. Once the roux is well combined, remove the pot from the heat and start adding the beef broth and white wine, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

3. Put the pot back on medium heat and add the sour cream. Stir constantly until the sauce becomes creamy and starts to simmer gently.

4. Add the lemon juice and capers, stirring to combine all the flavors. The sauce should be thick and creamy enough – if it’s too thin, you can add a little more flour mixed with cold water.

5. Add the meatballs to the sauce and adjust for salt and pepper. Let them simmer together for 5-10 minutes so they can absorb the flavors of the sauce.

6. Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving

Königsberg meatballs are delicious served warm, alongside boiled potatoes or mashed potatoes. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables are perfect accompaniments, providing a pleasant contrast to the rich sauce. You can also add lemon slices to enhance the flavors.

Practical tips and tricks

- Make sure the minced meat is of good quality to achieve juicy and flavorful meatballs.
- You can also add herbs like dill or thyme to the meatball mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- If you want a spicier sauce, you can add a little Dijon mustard or even a few drops of Tabasco sauce.
- Instead of capers, you can use green olives for an interesting variation.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use minced chicken, but the final taste will be different. Make sure not to overcook the meatballs to avoid drying them out.

2. How can I store the meatballs?
The meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
Königsberg meatballs are rich in protein, but the sour cream sauce can add calories. You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Königsberg meatballs are not only a delicious dish but also a way to bring family and friends together at the festive table. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, these meatballs will surely bring a smile to your face. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy this unforgettable culinary experience!