Non-Vegetarian
Beef Recipes Netherlands
4.9 (120+ reviews)

Bitterballen (Dutch meatballs)

Bitterballen (Dutch meatballs) is a delicious Netherlands style Beef dish prepared with authentic spices and fresh ingredients. Melt the butter in a skillet or pan. When melted, add the flour little by little and stir into a thick paste. Slowly stir in the stock, making sure the roux absorbs the liquid. Simmer for a couple of minutes on a low heat while you stir in the onion, parsley and the shredded meat. The mixture should thicken and turn into a heavy, thick sauce.

👨‍🍳
ItzLyfe Culinary Kitchen Master Tested • Updated Today
Bitterballen (Dutch meatballs)
⏱️
Prep Time 24 mins
🍳
Cook Time 20 mins
⏳
Total Time 44 mins
🍽️
Servings 4 Servings
🔥
Calories ~480 kcal
📊
Difficulty Moderate
Difficulty Levels Guide
  • Easy Prep ≤ 4 steps · Fast & beginner friendly
  • Moderate 5–8 steps · Everyday home cooking
  • Expert ≥ 9 steps · Multi-step advanced prep
📋

Ingredients Required

Tap or click any ingredient to check off during cooking
12 Items
👩‍🍳

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Follow numbered steps for authentic taste and perfection
Total 4 Steps
01

Melt the butter in a skillet or pan. When melted, add the flour little by little and stir into a thick paste. Slowly stir in the stock, making sure the roux absorbs the liquid. Simmer for a couple of minutes on a low heat while you stir in the onion, parsley and the shredded meat. The mixture should thicken and turn into a heavy, thick sauce.

02

Pour the mixture into a shallow container, cover and refrigerate for several hours, or until the sauce has solidified.

03

Take a heaping tablespoon of the cold, thick sauce and quickly roll it into a small ball. Roll lightly through the flour, then the egg and finally the breadcrumbs. Make sure that the egg covers the whole surface of the bitterbal. When done, refrigerate the snacks while the oil in your fryer heats up to 190C (375F). Fry four bitterballen at a time, until golden.

04

Serve on a plate with a nice grainy or spicy mustard.

💡

Chef's Secret Tips & Serving Pairings

  • Best enjoyed hot as a delicious non-vegetarian dish.
  • Pair with your favorite side dishes, rice, or fresh bread for a wholesome meal.

Watch Video Masterclass

Step-by-step masterclass tutorial for Bitterballen (Dutch meatballs)
Enjoy watching? Like on YouTube Watch on YouTube