RecipesBelgiumBalletjes in de Mosterdsaus met Frietjes (Meatballs in Mustard Sauce with Fries)

Balletjes in de Mosterdsaus met Frietjes (Meatballs in Mustard Sauce with Fries)

A beloved Belgian classic featuring tender meatballs simmered in a creamy, tangy mustard sauce, traditionally served with crispy fries. This dish is a comforting staple in Belgian cuisine.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Balletjes in de Mosterdsaus met Frietjes (Meatballs in Mustard Sauce with Fries) - Belgium traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Ground beef
  • 250 g Ground pork
  • 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
  • 50 g Breadcrumbs
  • 1 large Egg
  • 50 ml Milk
  • 2 tbsp Parsley(chopped)
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 30 g Butter
  • 30 g Flour
  • 400 ml Beef broth
  • 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 100 ml Heavy cream
  • for serving Fries

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into small meatballs (about 3-4 cm in diameter).

    💡 Tip: Do not overmix the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
  2. 2

    Melt butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove meatballs from the pan and set aside.

    ⏱️ 10 minutes
  3. 3

    In the same pan, add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.

    ⏱️ 2 minutes
    💡 Tip: This helps to cook out the raw flour taste.
  4. 4

    Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    💡 Tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps.
  5. 5

    Return the browned meatballs to the sauce. Cover and simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

    ⏱️ 25 minutes
    💡 Tip: Simmer on low heat to avoid breaking the meatballs.
  6. 6

    Serve the meatballs in mustard sauce hot, accompanied by freshly cooked fries.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the broth.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or water. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
  • Ensure the meatballs are cooked through; you can cut one open to check.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a tablespoon of capers to the sauce for a briny kick.
  • Incorporate a bay leaf and a sprig of thyme while simmering the meatballs.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes or stoemp instead of fries.

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