Frikadellen in Tomatensauce is a delicious and comforting German dish. Frikadellen are basically German meat patties, and when served in a rich tomato sauce, they make for a hearty meal. Here’s a basic recipe to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Frikadellen:
- 500g ground beef (you can also use a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2-3 slices of stale bread or 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 2 tablespoons oil for frying
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Frikadellen:
- Soak the bread: In a small bowl, soak the bread or breadcrumbs in milk. If using stale bread, break it into pieces before soaking.
- Mix the meat: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked bread, onion, garlic, egg, mustard, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
- Form patties: Shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook the patties: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened and translucent.
- Add tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Combine and Simmer:
- Add patties to the sauce: Return the cooked Frikadellen to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the patties.
- Simmer: Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the patties to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
4. Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the Frikadellen in Tomato Sauce over potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread.
Enjoy your comforting and hearty meal!
