Low Fat Authentic Dutch Bitterballen

Indulge guilt-free in the classic taste of Dutch street food with this Low Fat Authentic Dutch Bitterballen recipe! These crispy, golden-brown meatballs are a lighter twist on the beloved Dutch snack, made with lean ground beef, low-fat beef stock, and a touch of nutmeg for authentic flavor. By baking instead of deep-frying and using whole wheat breadcrumbs, this recipe keeps the iconic crunch intact while significantly reducing fat. The addition of gelatin gives the filling its signature creamy texture, while olive oil spray ensures perfectly crisp results. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties or snacking, best served hot with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. Easy to prepare ahead of time, this healthier version of bitterballen brings a taste of the Netherlands to your kitchen—without compromising on flavor!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• 250 grams Lean ground beef
• 500 ml Low-fat beef stock
• 30 grams Unsalted butter
• 50 grams All-purpose flour
• 1 medium, finely chopped Onion
• 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon, chopped Parsley
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Gelatin powder
• 100 grams Whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 large Egg whites
• 0 Olive oil spray

Directions

Step 1

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 10 minutes.

Step 3

Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture, stirring continuously for 2 minutes until the raw flour taste is cooked out.

Step 4

Gradually add the low-fat beef stock to the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Season with nutmeg, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Dissolve the gelatin powder in 2 tablespoons of water, let it bloom for 5 minutes, then stir it into the beef mixture.

Step 7

Transfer the mixture into a shallow container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Step 8

Once firm, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and shape them into balls.

Step 9

Beat the egg whites in a small bowl. Place the whole wheat breadcrumbs in another bowl.

Step 10

Dip each beef ball into the egg whites and then roll in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

Step 11

Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the bitterballen on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 12

Lightly spray the bitterballen with olive oil.

Step 13

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 14

Serve hot with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1165.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1298.9

Total Fat 50.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 24.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 221.3mg	0%
Sodium 3959.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 125.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.0g	0%
Total Sugars 11.1g
Protein 86.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 149.9mg	0%
Iron 14.6mg	0%
Potassium 826.1mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.1%

Protein: 26.5%

Carbs: 38.4%