Traditional Scandinavian cuisine offers a variety of delicious and nutritious foods that can be incorporated into your meal planning. Here are some traditional foods from Scandinavia that you should consider:
1. Smorgasbord
A smorgasbord is a traditional Scandinavian meal consisting of a variety of open-faced sandwiches, cold cuts, cheeses, and other accompaniments. It is a great option for a casual gathering or party, allowing guests to choose from a wide selection of dishes. Some popular items to include in a smorgasbord are:
- Herring: Pickled or smoked herring is a staple in Scandinavian cuisine and is often served on rye bread with onions and dill.
- Gravlax: This cured salmon dish is seasoned with dill, sugar, and salt, and is typically served with mustard sauce on rye bread.
- Meatballs: Swedish meatballs are a classic dish made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices like allspice and nutmeg.
- Pickled vegetables: Pickled cucumbers, beets, and other vegetables are common accompaniments to a smorgasbord.
2. Rye Bread
Rye bread is a staple in Scandinavian cuisine and is typically dense, dark, and slightly sweet. It is often used as a base for open-faced sandwiches and is a great source of fiber and nutrients. You can enjoy rye bread with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, smoked fish, or cold cuts.
3. Gravlax
Gravlax is a traditional Scandinavian dish made with raw salmon that is cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and dill. This dish is typically served thinly sliced with mustard sauce, bread, or potatoes. Gravlax is a popular appetizer or part of a smorgasbord and is a delicious way to enjoy fresh salmon.
4. Cinnamon Buns
Cinnamon buns, or “kanelbullar,” are a beloved treat in Scandinavia and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. These sweet, fluffy buns are flavored with cinnamon and sugar and are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. You can find cinnamon buns in bakeries throughout Scandinavia, or you can make your own at home.
5. Swedish Meatballs
Swedish meatballs are a classic dish that is enjoyed not only in Sweden but also in other Scandinavian countries. These small, savory meatballs are typically made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices like allspice and nutmeg. Swedish meatballs are often served with lingonberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pickled cucumbers.
6. Lingonberries
Lingonberries are small, red berries that grow wild in Scandinavia and are a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes. These tart berries are often used to make lingonberry sauce, which is a common accompaniment to meat dishes like Swedish meatballs. Lingonberries can also be used to make jams, desserts, and sauces.
7. Pickled Herring
Pickled herring is a staple in Scandinavian cuisine and is often served as an appetizer or part of a smorgasbord. Herring is typically pickled in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices and can be enjoyed with onions, dill, or sour cream. Pickled herring is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and is a flavorful addition to any meal.
8. Cloudberries
Cloudberries are a unique and delicious fruit that grows wild in Scandinavia. These golden berries are tart and sweet, with a flavor that is similar to a mix of raspberries and orange zest. Cloudberries are often used to make jams, desserts, and sauces, and are a special treat that can be enjoyed during the short berry-picking season in Scandinavia.
9. Aquavit
Aquavit is a traditional Scandinavian spirit that is flavored with herbs and spices like caraway, dill, and fennel. This strong, clear liquor is often enjoyed as a digestif or paired with pickled herring and other traditional dishes. Aquavit is a popular drink in Scandinavia and is an integral part of many celebrations and gatherings.