Grilled Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce on the Arteflame Grill

Swedish meatballs, or "köttbullar," are a beloved dish known for their savory flavor and tender texture. Traditionally served with a creamy gravy and lingonberry sauce, these meatballs are a staple in Swedish cuisine. Grilling them on the Arteflame adds a delicious smoky flavor, making them a perfect dish for outdoor cooking.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)

For the Lingonberry Sauce:

• 1/2 cup lingonberry preserves or jam
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, if using unsweetened preserves)

For the Creamy Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• Mashed potatoes or egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, allowing the breadcrumbs to soak for a few minutes. Add the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, egg, salt, black pepper, allspice, and nutmeg to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined, but do not overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

2. Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a tray and refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes to help them hold their shape during grilling.

3. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Preheat your Arteflame grill to medium heat.  Put some butter on the cooktop and let the butter melt and begin to sizzle.

4. Grill the Meatballs

Place the meatballs in the butter on the grill. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. The meatballs should have a slightly smoky flavor from the grill.

5. Prepare the Lingonberry Sauce

While the meatballs are grilling, prepare the lingonberry sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the lingonberry preserves, water, and sugar (if using). Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and warmed through. Set aside.

6. Make the Creamy Gravy

In a skillet or pan add the meatballs, add the butter for the gravy and melt over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and soy sauce, stirring until the gravy is smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve

Serve the grilled Swedish meatballs hot, drizzled with the creamy gravy and a spoonful of lingonberry sauce on the side. Pair with mashed potatoes or egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Grilled Swedish Meatballs

• Breadcrumbs: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.
• Grill Heat: Maintain medium heat on the grill to ensure the meatballs cook evenly without burning.
• Lingonberry Sauce: Lingonberry preserves add a sweet-tart contrast to the savory meatballs. If you can’t find lingonberries, cranberry sauce makes a good substitute.

Conclusion

Grilled Swedish Meatballs on the Arteflame grill offer a delicious twist on the classic dish. The combination of savory, tender meatballs with smoky notes from the grill, creamy gravy, and sweet-tart lingonberry sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs bring a taste of Sweden to your table.

Variations

1. Turkey Swedish Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork for a lighter version.
2. Herb-Infused Meatballs: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
3. Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of cheese in the center of each meatball before grilling for a gooey surprise.
4. Vegan Swedish Meatballs: Use plant-based ground meat and non-dairy milk and cream to create a vegan version of this dish.
5. Spicy Swedish Meatballs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meatball mixture for a bit of heat.

Best Pairings

• Drink: Pair with a glass of Swedish aquavit or a cold beer.
• Side Dish: Serve with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or roasted vegetables.
• Dessert: Finish with a traditional Swedish dessert like kladdkaka (chocolate sticky cake) or cinnamon buns.