Bitterballen

Appetizer

Item Rating: 64/100

1 serving (50 grams) contains 80 calories, 2.0 grams of protein, 4.0 grams of fat, and 8.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.6g)

Calories		378.5
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		18.9 g	24%
	Saturated Fat	7.1 g	35%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		47.3 mg	15%
Sodium		709.8 mg	30%
Total Carbohydrates		37.9 g	13%
	Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	8%
	Sugars	2.4 g
protein		9.5 g	19%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		47.3 mg	3%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		236.6 mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 170 cal (47.3%)

Protein: 38 cal (10.6%)

Carbs: 151 cal (42.1%)

About Bitterballen

Bitterballen are a traditional Dutch snack, often enjoyed as a deep-fried appetizer or bar food. These small, savory meat-based croquettes are made from a thick roux combined with shredded beef or veal, flavored with onions, spices, and herbs. They are then shaped into balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior. Typically served with mustard for dipping, bitterballen are high in energy due to their fat and carbohydrate content. A single serving (about 4 pieces) provides around 160 calories, with 4g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Though not a primary source of vitamins or minerals, they do contain small amounts of calcium and iron. Their nutrient profile makes them an indulgent treat rather than a health-focused dish.

Health Benefits

• Good source of quick energy due to its carbohydrate content (16g per serving).
• Provides small amounts of iron (1mg per serving), which is essential for oxygen transport in the body.
• Contains 4g of protein per serving, supporting muscle maintenance and repair.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten, wheat, dairy, eggs

Suitable for: Carnivorous diets

Not suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, low-fat

Selection and Storage

Store cooked bitterballen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain a crispy texture. For uncooked bitterballen, freeze on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Common Questions About Bitterballen Nutrition

How many calories and nutrients are in bitterballen?

A single bitterbal typically contains around 160 calories, 4 grams of protein, 16 grams of carbohydrates, 8 grams of fat, 1 gram of fiber, and 1 gram of sugar. It also has 300 mg of sodium, which can be a concern for those monitoring their salt intake.

Can bitterballen be eaten on a keto diet?

Bitterballen are not keto-friendly due to their high carb content, with approximately 16 grams of carbohydrates per piece. Traditional recipes use wheat flour and breadcrumbs, making it unsuitable for strict low-carb or keto diets.

Are there health benefits or concerns with bitterballen?

Bitterballen are a tasty snack but are high in sodium and fat, which can be a concern for individuals managing heart health or blood pressure. Additionally, they are lacking significant vitamins or fiber, so they should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How many bitterballen should I serve per person?

A typical serving size is 3-5 bitterballen per person, depending on whether they are served as a snack or appetizer. Keep portion sizes in mind, particularly given their calorie and fat content, to avoid overindulging.

How do bitterballen compare to other fried snacks like croquettes?

Bitterballen are smaller and usually round compared to croquettes, which are cylindrical. Both are breaded and fried, with similar nutrition profiles, but bitterballen are often considered more bite-sized and easier to serve as finger food.

Data Sources & Scientific References