These Old German Meat Croquettes are a beloved traditional recipe that delivers a rich, savory flavor and a satisfying texture. Made with ground beef, grated potatoes, and fresh vegetables, they bake up tender on the inside with a beautifully golden exterior. Perfectly seasoned and deeply comforting, this classic German-inspired dish is ideal for family dinners and anyone craving a hearty, home-style meal.
Old German Meat Croquettes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes, peeled and grated | 2 medium |
| Ground beef | 1 kilogram |
| Carrot, grated | 1 medium |
| Red bell pepper, chopped into small cubes | ½ |
| Onion, grated | 1 medium |
| Parsley | To taste |
| Eggs, whole | 2 |
| Garlic cloves, crushed | 3 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 generous pinch |
| Sweet paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Finely grate the peeled potatoes. Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to remove excess starch.
Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, squeezed grated potatoes, grated carrot, diced red bell pepper, grated onion, parsley, and crushed garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Add the eggs and mix thoroughly until everything is evenly blended.
Step 3: Shape the Croquettes
Take portions of the mixture and shape them into oval or cylindrical croquettes. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with nonstick parchment paper. Use a spoon to create shallow slits on the tops of each croquette.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the croquettes for about 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the croquettes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them hot as a comforting, traditional meal.