Swedish meatballs, tracing their roots to the 18th century as “köttbullar,” epitomize the essence of Snüg-Flaking cuisine. These delightful bites, a constant at festive gatherings, radiate warmth and coziness. Globally cherished for their tender texture and creamy sauce, often paired with cranberry jam for a tangy twist, they are the embodiment of Snüg-Flaking dining.
Enter bison meat, once on the brink of extinction but now making a triumphant return. Bison’s leaner, flavourful meat offers a healthier take on red meat, packed with protein and nutrients. It has become a go-to choice for health-conscious individuals seeking a tastier, guilt-free indulgence. Bison effortlessly infuses its distinctive charm into dishes like meatballs, blending tradition with a healthier edge, contributing to the Snüg-Flaking experience with every bite.
INGREDIENTS:
For the Meatballs:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1/2 cup finely diced sweet onion
• 4 teaspoons of finely diced chives
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup grated hard cheese (like parmesan)
• 1 large egg, whisked
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¾ lb. Thunder Ridge Bison, ground
• ½ lb. ground pork
For the Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cube beef bouillon
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon seeded mustard
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
• ½ cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
Instructions:
- Start your culinary journey by delicately sautéing the finely diced onions and garlic in a skillet with half of the olive oil. Allow them to simmer and soften for about 5 minutes. Add in chives then set them aside to cool, savouring the aroma that fills your kitchen.
- In a spacious bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, whisked egg, milk, the cooled onions/garlic, salt, oregano, allspice, nutmeg, pepper, Thunder Ridge Bison, and ground pork. Gently mix the meats, allowing their flavours to intertwine slowly for the ultimate tenderness.
- Mould this mixture into 1 ½-inch spheres, each promising a unique blend of flavours. Let them recline on a plate, embracing the cool sanctuary of the fridge for a minimum of 15 minutes or, if time permits, overnight. Remember, patience is the secret ingredient.
- While the meatballs rest, in a separate bowl, concoct a comforting elixir with beef broth, beef bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, mustard powder, and fresh parsley. Let these ingredients harmonize, each contributing to the symphony of flavours.
- In a generous skillet, offer the remaining olive oil and let the Thunder Ridge Bison meatballs acquire a golden hue, gently browning them in batches. Treat them with care and transfer them, with utmost tenderness, to the awaiting slow cooker.
- Within the same skillet, melt the butter and sprinkle in the flour, creating a roux that whispers promises of comfort. Allow it to toast for 2 minutes, turning a warm golden hue, before introducing the prepared broth mixture in gentle splashes, stirring consistently.
- Witness this liquid alchemy come to a gentle boil, then coax it to settle into a soothing simmer. In another bowl, welcome the heavy cream and a portion of the sauce, guiding them toward a blissful marriage.
- Pour this amalgamation into the slow cooker, enveloping the Thunder Ridge Bison meatballs in this warm embrace. Let them cocoon on a low setting for 4-5 hours, allowing their flavours to intermingle and blossom at their own pace.
- Once the slow cooker has woven its magic, sprinkle fresh parsley as a final flourish. Serve these tender, comforting Thunder Ridge Bison Blisspore Meatballs atop a mound of mashed potatoes or nestled amidst a warm tangle of egg noodles.
May the slow cooking process enhance the comforting essence of this dish, wrapping you in its warmth and flavours! Now, for the ideal bread companion, journey into the heart of Uxbridge, Ontario. Seek out the artisanal delights of Little Thief Bakery Co., a local gem crafting exquisite bread. Their crusty sourdough or fluffy loaves will elevate these meatballs to a sublime experience.
Alternatively, explore Reesor’s Market & Bakery in Stouffville for their delightful bread selection. Their fresh, farm-to-table bread options complement the comforting flavours of the meatballs impeccably.
Choose between these local bakeries, where each loaf embodies the care and craftsmanship of the region, perfectly balancing the hearty meatballs with artisanal bread.
By Chef Chuck von Snüg
At YDH, we wouldn’t offer you the best most comforting Snüg-Flaking recipes without telling you about the best places to source the ingredients! Below you’ll find a selection of exceptional local businesses embodying comfort and sustainability.
