German Hamburgers (Frikadellen) Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

• 1 kaiser roll
• pound ground beef
• pound ground pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Hungarian hot paprika (optional)
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Soak the kaiser roll in a medium bowl of water for 10 minutes. Once soaked, drain and squeeze out any excess water, then crumble the roll into a large bowl.

Step 2: To the crumbled roll, add the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, parsley, egg, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well blended.

Step 3: Shape the mixture into large, flattened meatballs, making sure they are evenly sized for even cooking.

Step 4: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry the meatballs in the skillet, turning them occasionally until they are browned and no longer pink in the center. This should take about 5 minutes per side.

Step 5: To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer. The temperature at the center of the patty should read at least 160F (70C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 272
• Fat: 16g
• Carbs: 9g
• Protein: 22g

Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size	1 serving
Calories	272
Total Fat	16g (21%)
Saturated Fat	6g (30%)
Cholesterol	117mg (39%)
Sodium	138mg (6%)
Total Carbohydrate	9g (3%)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4%)
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	22g (45%)
Vitamin C	8mg (8%)
Calcium	40mg (3%)
Iron	3mg (14%)
Potassium	351mg (7%)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

History and Origin

Frikadellen, often referred to as German hamburgers, have their roots deep in German culinary traditions. This dish has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the times when the first German settlers brought their meat patties to the United States. The name Frikadellen is derived from the French word "fricadelle," which refers to a small patty or cake made from minced meat. Although the recipe has evolved, it remains a staple of everyday meals in Germany, typically served at home, in cafeterias, or at street food stalls.

Regional Variations

Frikadellen is a versatile dish, with various regional adaptations. In Northern Germany, they might be made with a mixture of beef and pork, while in Southern regions, you could find versions that include veal or even game meats like venison. Additionally, in some parts of Germany, Frikadellen are served with a sauce, such as creamy mushroom sauce or a rich brown gravy. The spices used also vary, with paprika, marjoram, and nutmeg being popular choices in different areas.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While Frikadellen may resemble a hamburger, there are distinct differences. The key difference lies in their preparation and texture. Unlike the American hamburger, which is typically served in a bun, Frikadellen are flat, pan-fried patties, made without a bun. The mixture of ground meat is often enriched with bread soaked in milk, creating a more tender and juicy patty. Another significant difference is that Frikadellen are typically seasoned with aromatic herbs like marjoram and parsley, which is not common in the traditional hamburger recipe.

Where to Serve Frikadellen

Frikadellen can be found in various settings across Germany. They are commonly served in homes as a quick, hearty meal, often accompanied by a side of potatoes or a fresh salad. In public eateries or street food stalls, you might find them served with a dollop of mustard, pickles, or sauerkraut. Its also a popular dish for barbecues and picnics, where it is served cold in sandwiches or as part of a buffet. In some regions, these meat patties are even served in a bun, resembling a more traditional burger but with a distinctly German twist.

Interesting Facts

• In Germany, Frikadellen are sometimes called "Buletten" in Berlin or "Kttbullar" in Swedish cuisine, although the preparation and flavor profiles may vary.
• Frikadellen can be made from various types of meat, but the classic combination is ground beef and pork.
• The dish is sometimes called "Rinderfrikadellen" (beef frikadellen) when only beef is used, or "Schweinefrikadellen" (pork frikadellen) when made with pork only.
• Frikadellen are a favorite comfort food in many households and are often passed down through generations.
• In some parts of Germany, Frikadellen are served at Christmas and other festive occasions, often paired with a rich gravy or sauce.

Whether you're in Germany or trying to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen, Frikadellen offers a satisfying and flavorful experience that's both comforting and easy to prepare.

FAQ about German Hamburgers (Frikadellen) Recipe

Comments