Bitterballen

Bitterballen are a cherished Dutch snack crafted from a savory meat stew thickened with roux and beef stock. This delectable mixture is seasoned with onions, salt, pepper, parsley, and a hint of nutmeg. Once cooked, the stew is left to cool and firm up in the refrigerator. Afterward, it is rolled into bite-sized balls, breaded, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Some recipes even incorporate a touch of curry powder or finely chopped vegetables like carrots for added flavor.

These tasty morsels are typically served with mustard for dipping and are enjoyed in various locations such as Suriname, the Netherlands, the Netherlands Antilles, Belgium, and even Indonesia.

Bitterballen share many similarities with another Dutch snack called kroketten. Both snacks utilize similar ingredients and cooking methods; however, kroketten are larger and shaped like oblong sausages, whereas bitterballen are small and round.

The name "bitterbal" is derived from the Dutch word "bitter" which refers to certain herb-flavored alcoholic drinks. Bitterballen are often found as part of a "bittergarnituur" a platter of savory snacks perfect for enjoying with a drink at a pub or at a reception in the Netherlands.