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Hakklihakotlet (Meat Patties)

Estonian meat patties are a rich, savory dish eaten as an appetizer or as a protein-rich snack. This authentic recipe calls for the use of three types of ground meats—beef, veal, and pork—giving hakklihakotlet patties a unique taste and juicy texture. Make the patties nice and thick for the most tenderness. Braised red cabbage is an excellent complement to these patties.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal

Ingredients

  • ½ lb (250 g) lean ground beef
  • ½ lb (250 g) lean ground veal
  • ½ lb (250 g) lean ground pork
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp (5 g) salt
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ onion, diced
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) cold water
  • 1 cup (60 g) fresh breadcrumbs
  • 4 Tbsp (60 ml) vegetable oil

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the meat, eggs, salt, pepper, onion, and water.
  2. Mix the ingredients by hand for 5 to 10 minutes, until the mixture has become smooth and fluffy.
  3. With hands moistened in cold water, shape the mixture into 8 thick, round patties.
  4. Coat both sides of each patty thoroughly with the breadcrumbs.
  5. In a frying pan or skillet set over medium high heat, heat the oil and fry the patties for about 5 to 10 minutes on each side. The patties should brown but not get burnt.
  6. Remove the patties and serve hot.