RecipesDenmarkDanish Pork and Apple Dumplings (Æbleflæsk Boller)

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.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Danish Pork and Apple Dumplings (Æbleflæsk Boller) - Denmark traditional dish

🧂 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. 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. 2

    Form the mixture into small, uniform dumplings, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

    💡 Tip: Moisten your hands with water to prevent sticking.
  3. 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. 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. 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. 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.

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