Authentic Bitterballen Recipe - Delicious Dutch Meatballs

Authentic Dutch Beef recipe — Bitterballen (Dutch meatballs). Imported from TheMealDB.

Medium
Updated March 14, 2026

4

servings

Medium

Difficulty

Authentic Bitterballen Recipe - Delicious Dutch Meatballs

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded beef (cooked and shredded)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup butter (unsalted)
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated)
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs (for coating)
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

7 steps

  1. Prepare the roux

    Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.

    Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  2. Add flour

    Whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until golden.

    Ensure there are no lumps.
  3. Add broth

    Gradually add beef broth while stirring. Cook until thickened.

    Adjust heat if necessary to avoid boiling.
  4. Mix in beef and spices

    Stir in shredded beef, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

    Let the mixture cool completely.
  5. Form balls

    Once cool, shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

    Use wet hands to prevent sticking.
  6. Coat and chill

    Dip each ball in beaten eggs and roll in breadcrumbs. Chill for at least 30 minutes.

    Chilling helps them hold their shape.
  7. Fry the bitterballen

    Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the balls until golden brown.

    Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Tags: DinnerParty,HangoverFood,Alcoholic

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your international meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Steamed rice or crusty bread
🍽️A fresh green salad
🍽️Seasonal roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Authentic Bitterballen Recipe - Delicious Dutch Meatballs is a beloved dish from International cuisine.

International cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking traditions that reflect the culture and history of the region. This dish is a wonderful example of its distinctive culinary heritage.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 10 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can use chicken or pork as alternatives to beef.

Rate This Recipe

How was this recipe?

Share This Recipe

Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories250kcal
Total Fat15gg
Sodium300mgmg
Total Carbohydrates20gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars1gg
Protein12gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CategoryDinner