Swedish Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans:
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
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500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 egg
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
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2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
For the Gravy:
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
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4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
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1/4 cup butter
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1/4 cup milk
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Green Beans:
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2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
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In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes until softened.
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined.
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Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
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Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, cooking for 7-10 minutes, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Set aside.
2. Make the Gravy:
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In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 minutes, until it forms a smooth paste.
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Gradually whisk in the beef broth and soy sauce. Continue to cook and whisk until the gravy thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet and simmer for a few minutes in the gravy.
3. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
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Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Cook the Green Beans:
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In a medium skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
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On a plate, serve a portion of mashed potatoes, top with Swedish meatballs and gravy, and serve with a side of green beans.