**Boeries** are a popular Afrikaner dish that combines savory meatballs (boerekollies) with soft, pillowy dumplings (vleisdropies). This recipe will guide you through making these delicious and hearty meatballs paired with creamy potato dumplings. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in!
#### Ingredients:
**For the Meatballs:**
- 500g minced beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp olive oil
**For the Potato Dumplings:**
- 500g potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced
- 1 cup milk
- Salt, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp butter
#### Instructions:
##### Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
1. **In a large bowl**, mix the minced beef with the chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
2. **Using your hands** or a meat grinder, shape the mixture into small balls (about 2 cm in diameter).
3. Set aside.
##### Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
1. **Heat olive oil** in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Gently place the meatballs in the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are browned on all sides. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
3. Once cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.
##### Step 3: Prepare the Potato Dumplings
1. **Place the diced potatoes** in a large pot with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until soft (about 10-15 minutes).
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Add milk, salt, and butter. Mash gently until you achieve a smooth consistency.
##### Step 4: Forming the Dumplings
1. **Using your hands**, form small lumps of mashed potato (about the size of a golf ball).
2. Place each lump on top of a meatball in a large serving dish or baking tray.
3. Gently press down to slightly flatten the dumpling, ensuring it is securely attached to the meatball.
##### Step 5: Baking
1. **Preheat your oven** to 200°C (400°F).
2. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the dumplings are puffed and golden.
3. Serve immediately with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
#### Tips:
- **For added flavor**, consider adding finely chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture.
- To make this recipe more interactive, you can serve it in individual ramekins, allowing guests to enjoy each boerie separately.
#### Conclusion
Boeries are a delightful and hearty dish that offers both comfort and variety. The tender meatballs paired with creamy potato dumplings provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy this traditional Afrikaner recipe at your next gathering!
By following these detailed steps and including relevant keywords, you can enhance the SEO of this recipe to attract more visitors looking for traditional South African dishes.