Swedish · Food & Drink
Köttbullar
Meatballs
Beginnernoun
Definition
Swedish meatballs, the country's most famous dish.
Example
Mormors köttbullar är bäst.
Grandma's meatballs are the best.
Etymology
'Köttbullar' combines 'kött' (meat) with 'bullar' (balls), indicating a form of meat dish that is quintessentially Swedish. The dish has roots in Dutch frikadeller.
How & Where It’s Used
'Köttbullar' is frequently referenced in casual conversations, especially in dining contexts, and is often mentioned on menus and recipes, relating to both spoken and written Swedish.
Literary Heritage
'Köttbullar' is a staple in Swedish culture, celebrated in songs like 'Köttbullar och potatis' and in many cookbooks.