Oond Frikkadel (Oven Meatballs) Recipe

Oond Frikkadel, or oven-baked meatballs, is a traditional South African dish that’s wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Made with lean beef mince, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, these meatballs are juicy and tender. Whether served with mashed potatoes, sweet yellow rice, or beetroot, this dish is a comforting crowd-pleaser. Add a surprise center of cheese for an extra indulgent touch!

Why This Recipe Works

Golden Onion Base: Frying onions, tomatoes, green peppers, and garlic creates a rich, flavorful foundation.

Herbs and Spices: The mix of spices like chili powder, coriander, or cumin adds depth and warmth to the meatballs.

Moisture Balance: Eggs and breadcrumbs bind the meatballs perfectly, ensuring they stay moist without falling apart.

Baking Method: Baking at high heat creates a deliciously browned exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Customizable: The recipe offers room for creativity, like adding cheese centers or using your favorite spice blends.

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

Ingredients:

1 kg lean beef mince meat

1 onion, finely chopped

1 tomato, finely chopped

1 green pepper, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped

3 tbsp oil (for frying)

2 tsp salt

1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp of your preferred spice (cumin, coriander, or paprika)

A handful of fresh coriander or parsley, chopped

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 eggs

Optional Ingredients:

Cheese pieces (for stuffing the meatballs)

How to Make Oond Frikkadel

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until golden brown.

Stir in the chopped tomato, green pepper, and garlic. Fry for 8–10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the mince meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt, pepper, chili powder, and your chosen spice (cumin, coriander, or paprika).

Add the cooled onion mixture and chopped coriander or parsley to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands until evenly combined.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Line a baking tray with foil or baking paper.

Roll the meat mixture into even-sized balls and place them neatly on the tray.

If adding cheese, press a small piece into the center of each meatball and seal the mixture around it.

Place the tray in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up the meatballs.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).

Remove the meatballs from the fridge and drizzle them lightly with oil.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are beautifully browned and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Oond Frikkadel pairs wonderfully with:

Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables: A classic, comforting combo.

Sweet Yellow Rice: A fragrant and slightly sweet option that complements the spices.

Beetroot or Atchar: Add a tangy, flavorful side for balance.

Flatbreads or Rolls: Turn the meatballs into sliders or wraps for a fun twist.

Helpful Tips for Recipe Success

Use Lean Meat: This prevents the meatballs from becoming too greasy.

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the meatballs dense. Combine ingredients just until evenly distributed.

Chill Before Baking: Chilling helps the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.

Cheese Variation: Try stuffing the meatballs with mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta for a gooey center.

Adjust Spices: Customize the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or incorporating smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Timing Breakdown

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oond Frikkadel is the ultimate comfort food, combining bold flavors, tender texture, and versatility. It’s ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or even serving at gatherings. The ease of baking these meatballs makes them a healthier option, and the ability to customize spices and fillings means you’ll never get bored with this classic dish.

Enjoy your Oond Frikkadel, and don’t forget to experiment with different sides and seasonings to make it your own!

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