RecipesDenmarkDanish Fish Dumplings in Parsley Sauce (Fiskeboller i Persillesovs)

Danish Fish Dumplings in Parsley Sauce (Fiskeboller i Persillesovs)

Delicate fish dumplings, often made with cod or other white fish, served in a classic creamy parsley sauce. This dish highlights the freshness of Danish seafood and the comforting nature of traditional Danish home cooking.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Danish Fish Dumplings in Parsley Sauce (Fiskeboller i Persillesovs) - Denmark traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Cod fillets(skinless and boneless, finely minced or processed)
  • 1 large Egg
  • 100 ml Heavy cream
  • 50 g Breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp White pepper
  • 30 g Butter
  • 30 g All-purpose flour
  • 500 ml Milk
  • 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(finely chopped)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    For the fish dumplings: Combine the minced cod, egg, heavy cream, breadcrumbs, salt, and white pepper in a bowl. Mix well until a cohesive mixture forms.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the fish is very finely minced for tender dumplings.
  2. 2

    Shape the mixture into small, uniform balls (about 1 inch in diameter).

    💡 Tip: Lightly wet your hands to make shaping easier.
  3. 3

    Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a gentle simmer. Carefully drop the fish dumplings into the simmering water.

    💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary.
  4. 4

    Simmer the dumplings for about 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

    ⏱️ 10 minutes
    💡 Tip: The dumplings should be firm but tender.
  5. 5

    For the parsley sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

    ⏱️ 2 minutes
  6. 6

    Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

    💡 Tip: Use a whisk for a smooth sauce.
  7. 7

    Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, salt, and white pepper to taste. Add the cooked fish dumplings back into the sauce and heat gently for a few minutes.

    💡 Tip: Add parsley at the end to preserve its fresh flavor and color.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Serve with boiled potatoes and a side of pickled beets for a traditional Danish meal.
  • If you don't have cod, other firm white fish like haddock or pollock can be used.
  • For a lighter sauce, use low-fat milk and omit the cream.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for warmth.
  • Incorporate finely chopped chives along with the parsley.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavor of the sauce.

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