Danish Pork and Apple Dumplings (Æbleflæsk Boller)
Tender pork and apple dumplings, a comforting and flavorful dish often served with a creamy dill sauce or gravy. This recipe offers a unique take on traditional Danish flavors, focusing on the savory-sweet combination of pork and apple within a soft dumpling.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Ground pork
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples(peeled, cored, and finely diced)
- 1 small Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped)
- 1 large Egg
- 100 g Breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Butter(for sautéing)
- 500 ml Chicken or vegetable broth
- 100 ml Heavy cream(optional, for sauce)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, diced apples, chopped onion, fresh dill, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix.
💡 Tip: Ensure apples and onions are finely diced for even cooking. - 2
Form the mixture into small, uniform dumplings, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
💡 Tip: Moisten your hands with water to prevent sticking. - 3
Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the dumplings on all sides, working in batches if necessary.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Ensure dumplings are mostly submerged in the broth. - 5
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
⏱️ 35 minutes💡 Tip: Avoid boiling vigorously, which can break the dumplings. - 6
If making a sauce, remove the dumplings to a plate. Whisk in the heavy cream (if using) into the simmering broth and cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Return dumplings to the sauce to warm through.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the dumpling mixture.
- ✓Serve with boiled potatoes or a simple green salad.
- ✓Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the dumpling mixture for a tangy kick.
- Incorporate finely chopped leeks along with the onions.
- Serve without the sauce as a more rustic dish.