Swedish Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans:

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

• 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1/4 cup milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Green Beans:

• 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

• In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes until softened.

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined.

• Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

• 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:

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

• Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 minutes, until it forms a smooth paste.

• Gradually whisk in the beef broth and soy sauce. Continue to cook and whisk until the gravy thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

• 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:

• 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.

• 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:

• 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:

• On a plate, serve a portion of mashed potatoes, top with Swedish meatballs and gravy, and serve with a side of green beans.