Known to be the coldest region in Europe, Scandinavia is known for lots. Whether it be the snow throughout the years, the early sunsets, or the various Northern Lights locations, one thing it isn’t is the food. Despite its lack of representation worldwide, Scandinavia is not lacking in the food they offer. Here are 4 MUST try dishes for your visit to this freezing region.
Swedish Meatballs
An IKEA classic! Swedish meatballs are more than just something you can get at a chain furniture store. Traditionally, the beef and pork meatballs are served in a Swedish beef gravy. They are also served with lingonberry sauce (similar to cranberry sauce) and mashed potatoes, which pairs beautifully with the gravy. This dish is truly representative of the area and should definitely be at the top of your list!
Danish Smørrebrød
Smørrebrød is otherwise known as an open-faced sandwich. It consists of rye bread with butter and an array of toppings. Smørrebrød directly translates to bread and butter, meaning these two ingredients are key to the perfect smørrebrød. Common toppings include meats, fish, vegetables, etc. It is typically eaten with a knife and fork. Despite the various topping options, there is an order to which you should eat the smørrebrød. Begin with pickled herring, then other fish, meat, and conclude your meal with cheese. This is a great food to try!
Gravlax
If you’re a fish lover then this one is for you. Typically made with salmon, Gravlax is essentially cured fish. The fish gets salted, sugared, and infused with dill or pepper. Gravlax is not the same flavor as smoked salmon but is comparable in its flavor profile.
The recipe comes from the ancient ways to preserve fish and is typically served as an appetizer on bread or with a mustard sauce.
Kanelbullar
Kanelbullar is essentially a traditional Swedish cinnamon bun! With a softer dough that is typically in a more knotted shape, it definitely differs from American treats. The dough is usually spiced with cardamom and filled with cinnamon sugar. They are a bit less sweet than American rolls and are topped with pearl sugar rather than cream cheese glaze. These are typically eaten with coffee in the afternoon.
Scandinavia, while not widely known for their cuisine, is still full of delicious cultural foods. By trying any of their yummy meals, you are allowing yourself the pleasure of understanding a bit more about their culture. For fish lovers and cinnamon roll fans, you MUST make a trip to Scandinavia. If the sights don’t entice you, I hope the food will.
Written by: Jillian Kotin
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