Frikkadel is a beloved South African dish, featuring flavorful, spiced meatballs that are typically pan-fried or baked. A staple in many households, these meatballs are rooted in Dutch and Cape Malay culinary traditions, often made with ground beef or lamb and a blend of warm spices like nutmeg and cloves. Frikkadel is versatile—perfect as a main with sides like rice or mash, or as a snack on its own. Below, I’ll guide you through a detailed, step-by-step recipe to make frikkadel for 4-6 people, written in a warm, engaging blog style.
Why Frikkadel Is a South African Comfort Food
Frikkadel is the kind of dish that brings back memories of family dinners—juicy, aromatic meatballs with a golden crust, packed with flavor in every bite. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. This recipe keeps things authentic with a few tips to ensure your frikkadels are tender and delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Frikkadel
To make a batch of tasty frikkadel, gather these ingredients:
- Meatball Mixture:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped or grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or 2 slices of white bread, soaked in milk and squeezed dry)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for umami)
- Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs (like thyme or oregano)
- For Cooking:
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra flavor)
- Optional for Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Tomato sauce or chutney, for dipping
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Baking sheet (if baking instead of frying)
- Spatula or tongs for flipping
- Grater (for onion, if grating)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Frikkadel
Follow these steps to create a batch of frikkadel that’s tender, flavorful, and golden-brown. You can fry or bake them, depending on your preference.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped or grated onion, and minced garlic. Add the beaten egg, breadcrumbs (or soaked bread), milk, Worcestershire sauce (if using), ground nutmeg, cloves, coriander, salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. Mix everything together with your hands until well combined, but don’t overwork the mixture—overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
Pro Tip: Grating the onion instead of chopping it releases more moisture, keeping the frikkadel juicy.
Step 2: Test the Seasoning
Take a small portion of the mixture (about a teaspoon), form it into a tiny patty, and cook it in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side. Taste it and adjust the seasoning in the mixture if needed—add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
Step 3: Shape the Frikkadel
Roll the mixture into balls, about the size of a golf ball (around 2 inches in diameter). You should get 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size. Flatten each ball slightly with your hands to create a patty-like shape—this is traditional for frikkadel and helps them cook evenly. Place the shaped frikkadel on a plate and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to firm up, making them easier to handle during cooking.
Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method
You can either fry or bake the frikkadel. Frying gives a crispy, golden crust, while baking is a lighter option with less oil.
- For Frying: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter (if using) in a large skillet over medium heat. The butter adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you prefer.
- For Baking: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the frikkadel on a lightly greased baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Brush the tops lightly with oil for a golden finish.
Step 5: Cook the Frikkadel
- If Frying: Place the frikkadel in the hot skillet in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef or lamb. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- If Baking: Bake the frikkadel in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Check the internal temperature to ensure they’re done.
Note: Don’t press down on the frikkadel while cooking—this squeezes out the juices and makes them dry.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
Cut into one frikkadel to ensure there’s no pink in the center, or use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature. If they need more time, return them to the skillet or oven for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Arrange the frikkadel on a platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. They’re also delicious with a side of tomato sauce or chutney for dipping.
Tips for Frikkadel Success
- Meat Choice: A mix of beef and lamb adds depth, but you can use all beef or even pork. Aim for a bit of fat (15-20%) to keep the meatballs juicy.
- Breadcrumbs vs. Bread: Soaked bread makes the frikkadel softer, while breadcrumbs give a slightly firmer texture—choose based on your preference.
- Make Ahead: Shape the frikkadel a day in advance and refrigerate, or freeze them raw for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
- Serving Ideas: Turn leftovers into a sandwich with bread, lettuce, and chutney, or add them to a tomato-based stew for a twist.
Why Frikkadel Is So Loved
Frikkadel is a true South African comfort food, blending simple ingredients with warm spices to create something truly special. The golden, crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior make them irresistible, whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a casual braai. This dish is all about bringing people together with hearty, home-cooked goodness. So, roll up your sleeves, mix up those meatballs, and let’s make some frikkadel magic!
