Mediterranean Diet Authentic Dutch Bitterballen
Experience the classic charm of Dutch bitterballen with a Mediterranean diet twist in this wholesome, flavor-packed recipe! These crispy, golden bites are crafted with lean ground turkey, whole wheat flour, and nutrient-rich olive and walnut oils, making them a lighter yet satisfying alternative to the traditional version. Infused with aromatic garlic, fresh parsley, and a hint of warming nutmeg, these bitterballen are elevated by the sunny brightness of lemon zest, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Coated in crunchy whole wheat breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, they're ideal for serving as a guilt-free appetizer or snack. Pair with a creamy Greek yogurt dip or robust mustard for an irresistible, health-conscious take on this Dutch classic. Perfect for gatherings or as a comfort food indulgence, this recipe brings Mediterranean-inspired nutrition and authentic European flair to your table.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium, finely chopped onion
- 2 finely minced garlic cloves
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 0.5 cup whole wheat flour
- 1.5 cups unsalted chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons, finely chopped fresh parsley
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
- 1 large, beaten egg
- 3 tablespoons walnut oil
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the turkey mixture, and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens into a smooth, thick sauce. This should take about 5 minutes.
Stir in the parsley, nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest, and then remove from heat. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet.
Prepare one bowl with the beaten egg and another with the bread crumbs.
Dip each ball into the egg, and then roll it in the bread crumbs to coat evenly.
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the walnut oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Fry the balls in batches, turning them frequently, until they are crispy and golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
Transfer the fried bitterballen to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with a side of mustard or Greek yogurt dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1808 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 126.6 g | 162% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.8 g | 114% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 32.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 542 mg | 180% | |
| Sodium | 2866 mg | 125% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 64.9 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.6 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.7 g | ||
| Protein | 104.4 g | 209% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 126 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 9.2 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 748 mg | 16% | |
*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.
