Can I substitute the lamb with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This actually helps the flavors meld together even more!

What can I use if I can’t find lingonberry jam?

If you can't find lingonberry jam, cranberry sauce makes a fantastic substitute. A little bit of red currant jelly also works well.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I freeze these meatballs?

You can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

What are some good side dishes to serve with these meatballs?

A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette is a great choice. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also complement the meatballs nicely.

I recall this one time when my family hosted a Swedish-themed Christmas party. We aimed to replicate a traditional 'julbord,' a smorgasbord of festive dishes. Of course, the star of the show was the lamb meatballs with lingonberry jam glaze. Even my cousin, who's a picky eater, couldn't resist them. It wasn't just the taste but the story of how I wanted to re-create this recipe and share my culinary findings. It's really fun if you experiment a lil' bit, too.

These aren't your average meatballs; they're infused with flavors that dance on your taste buds. We’re talking tender lamb meatballs, perfectly seasoned, and then glazed with a tangy-sweet lingonberry jam reduction. The richness of the lamb paired with the vibrant lingonberry jam creates a symphony of flavors, making it a dish that’s both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated. Let's get to it!

Lamb Meatballs with Lingonberry Jam Glaze

Name: Lamb Meatballs with Lingonberry Jam Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Nordic
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Lamb; 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup, finely chopped Onion; 2 cloves, minced Garlic; 1 large Egg; 2 tbsp, chopped Fresh Parsley; 1/2 tsp Salt; 1/4 tsp Black Pepper; 1/2 cup Lingonberry Jam; 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon Mustard; Pinch (optional) Red Pepper Flakes

Savor the delightful combination of tender lamb meatballs coated in a tangy-sweet lingonberry jam glaze, an easy recipe that brings a touch of Scandinavian flavor to your table.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

📖 Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps to cook the meatballs evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands, but don't overmix – this will keep the meatballs tender.
If you have a food processor, pulse the onion and garlic a few times before adding them to the lamb mixture. This ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the meatballs. If not, finely chop these ingredients to prevent any large chunks.
Roll the mixture into small, roughly 1-inch meatballs. Aim for consistency so they cook evenly. Don't worry about making them perfectly round.
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Ensure they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned. Keep an eye on them – you want them to be juicy, not dry. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the lingonberry jam glaze. In a small saucepan or non-stick skillet, combine the lingonberry jam, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, but you can omit them if you prefer a sweeter glaze.
Heat the glaze over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it simmers and thickens slightly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Make sure not to burn the glaze; reduce the heat if necessary.
Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the skillet with the lingonberry jam glaze. Gently toss the meatballs in the glaze to coat them evenly. This is where the magic happens!
Simmer the meatballs in the glaze for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This step enhances the overall taste and gives the meatballs a beautiful, glossy finish. The aroma at this point is simply divine.
Serve the lamb meatballs hot, garnished with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped chives. These are delicious served on their own as an appetizer or with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables. For a Scandinavian touch, serve with pickled cucumbers.