The secrets of Scandinavian cuisine

2024. 10. 11.

It's worth getting to know

When we talk about Scandinavian cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is minimalism and simplicity. There is no room for unnecessary decorations or overcomplicated dishes - Scandinavian cuisine is full of simple but great dishes. Fresh ingredients and authentic flavors make Scandinavian dishes truly special.

In addition, the history of the survival of the recipes is also very exciting. The roots of Scandinavian cuisine can be found in the life of the Vikings, the traditional recipes were inherited through folk ballads and have survived to this day. The isolation of the area plays a big role in the development of traditions: preservation, smoking, the consumption of fish and forest plants, the use of seasonal ingredients all served to survive.

Hygge - the secret of happiness

You may have heard of the term "hygge", which perfectly describes the warmth and comfort that the Scandinavians smuggle into their everyday lives. But what does this mean in the kitchen?

Hygge is about creating intimate moments in the kitchen - about making cooking and eating not just a necessity, but also a pleasure. A candlelit dinner, the smell of a freshly baked cake: in the everyday life of the Scandinavian people, these things mean happiness. You don't have to think about big things, sometimes a simple gesture or a delicious meal is enough to create that special atmosphere.

The stars of Scandinavian cuisine

Smörgåsbord

You probably know exactly the term Swedish buffet. What comes to your mind first when you hear the word? Huge selection, full plates, hot and cold dishes.

The traditional Swedish buffet, smörgåsbord, is still one of the most popular traditions of Scandinavian cuisine, because everyone can find their favorites at one table. Its indispensable elements are various fish (smoked eel, herring, marinated salmon), roasts, breads, cheeses, potatoes prepared in a variety of ways and other side dishes. Desserts, however, are not part of the offer.

Pastries

The iconic cakes and breads of Scandinavian cuisine, such as cinnamon rolls (kanelbulle) and crispy rye bread (knäckebröd), are real specialties. The harmony of the soft dough of the kanelbulle and the spicy cinnamon filling evokes the warmth of Scandinavian homes in every bite, while knäckebröd is an essential item for everyday life due to its simplicity and versatility.

It's worth a try!

You can meet Scandinavian cuisine not only in restaurants and cookbooks! You can easily bring this simple, yet fascinating gastronomic experience to your home. How do you get started? First, try some simple, but all the more delicious recipes that will introduce you to Scandinavian flavors.

The traditional Norwegian flatbread (lopse) is incredibly popular, as it is perfect with everything. Its salty version (potetlefse) made with potatoes is eaten in the same way as bread. There is also a sweet version (tykklefse), which is a little thicker and is recommended with tea or coffee.

Kalops is actually a beef stew of Swedish and Finnish origin. A real hearty, filling meal. It is usually served with fries and pickled beets.

And if you want a simple sweet, try the yulekake. This is a seasonal cake of Norwegian origin, which is often referred to as Christmas bread. It's actually a cake made of butter and sugar, flavored with cardamom, and containing candied fruit, raisins, and almonds.

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