Authentic Dutch Bitterballen

Crispy, indulgent, and packed with savory flavor, Authentic Dutch Bitterballen are the ultimate snack to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Netherlands. These golden, bite-sized morsels feature a creamy, velvety beef ragout made with a rich blend of shredded beef, aromatic nutmeg, and fresh parsley—thickened to perfection with a roux and optionally enhanced with gelatin. Chilled, shaped into balls, then double-coated in breadcrumbs for maximum crunch, these delightful treats are deep-fried to golden perfection. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a comforting snack paired with a dollop of tangy mustard, these traditional Dutch bitterballen promise to deliver irresistible flavors and textures in every bite. Perfect for parties, game nights, or simply elevating your snack game!

Nutriscore Rating: 49/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 25

Ingredients

• 100 grams unsalted butter
• 100 grams all-purpose flour
• 500 milliliters beef broth
• 200 grams cooked beef, shredded
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 sheet gelatin (optional)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 200 grams breadcrumbs
• 1 liter vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

Step 1

In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2

Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly until the roux turns a pale golden color.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring often, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Add the shredded beef, nutmeg, black pepper, salt, and parsley. Mix well to combine.

Step 5

If using, dissolve the gelatin sheet (after being soaked in cold water) in the mixture for additional thickness.

Step 6

Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the egg yolks one at a time until fully incorporated.

Step 7

Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Step 8

Once firm, use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 9

Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated. Repeat this process for a double coating if desired for extra crispiness.

Step 10

In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).

Step 11

Fry the bitterballen in batches without overcrowding, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Step 12

Use a slotted spoon to remove the bitterballen from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 13

Serve hot with mustard for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2276 grams (2276.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	10859

Total Fat 1063.40g	1363%
Saturated Fat 200.70g	1004%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 1149mg	383%
Sodium 6636mg	289%
Total Carbohydrate 248.60g	90%
Dietary Fiber 12.40g	44%
Total Sugars 19.50g
Protein 127.70g	255%

Vitamin D 117IU	583%
Calcium 351mg	27%
Iron 26mg	144%
Potassium 1437mg	31%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 86.4%

Protein: 4.6%

Carbs: 9.0%