Hackbraten and Frikadellen: German variations on the traditional meatloaf

Hackbraten and Frikadellen

Hackbraten and Frikadellen are two popular German specialties.  They are made with very similar ingredients.  Which will you prefer?

• Hackbraten-A German style meatloaf made with ground beef, ground pork and ground vegetables.  Meat is cooked in the oven, just as traditional meatloaf.  It is traditionally sliced when served, topped with a brown gravy and served with mashed potatoes, homefried potatoes or warm German potato salad.

• Frikadellen-A variation of Hackbraten.  Although frickadellen are also made with ground beef, ground pork and ground vegetables, they are served in patty form (round similar to a small hamburger).  Germans either serve frikadellen cold with mustard or warm, topped with a brown gravy and served with warm German potato salad or homefried potatoes.  The cold version is often eaten as a snack with a German beer.

 Both hackbraten and frikadellen are traditionally spiced well.  They may taste spicier than a traditional American meatloaf or patty.