Grandma’s Old German Meat Croquettes
Delve into the rich culinary traditions of Germany with Grandma’s Old German Meat Croquettes. This recipe, passed down through generations, combines the heartiness of grated potatoes and ground beef with a medley of vegetables and spices. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, these croquettes offer a delightful crunch and a burst of savory flavors in every bite. Follow our detailed guide to recreate this timeless dish in your kitchen and experience a piece of German heritage.
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Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 2 medium, peeled and grated |
| Ground beef | 1 kilogram |
| Carrot | 1 medium, grated |
| Red bell pepper | 1/2, chopped into small cubes |
| Onion | 1 medium, grated |
| Parsley | To taste |
| Eggs | 2 whole |
| Garlic cloves | 3, crushed |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 generous pinch |
| Sweet paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Grate and Squeeze: Grate the two peeled potatoes using a fine grater. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much of the starchy liquid as possible. This step is crucial to ensure the croquettes have the right texture and aren’t too wet.
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Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated potatoes, grated carrot, chopped red bell pepper, grated onion, parsley, and crushed garlic.
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Add Seasonings: Add 1 teaspoon of salt, a generous pinch of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika to the bowl.
Mix Well: Crack the two whole eggs into the mixture. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Croquettes
Form the Croquettes: Take portions of the meat mixture and shape them into croquettes. You can make them oval or cylindrical, depending on your preference.
Create Slits: Transfer the shaped croquettes to a baking sheet lined with nonstick baking paper. Using a spoon, make superficial slits on the top of each croquette. This helps them cook evenly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Bake the Croquettes
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
Bake: Place the baking sheet with the croquettes in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the croquettes are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Enjoy: Remove the croquettes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional German dish.
Cooking Notes
Draining Potatoes: Ensuring that the grated potatoes are thoroughly squeezed helps prevent the croquettes from becoming too moist and helps them hold their shape.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like finely chopped celery or leeks for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions: These croquettes are delicious served with a side of mustard, a fresh green salad, or a tangy coleslaw.
