When it comes to culinary traditions, few countries can rival the rich and hearty dishes of Denmark. From savory meatballs to sweet pastries, Danish cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s warm and welcoming culture. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 authentic Danish recipes that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Copenhagen.
Start with classic comfort food like **Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring**, a traditional open-faced sandwich made with rye bread, pickled herring, and topped with boiled eggs and butter. Or try your hand at **Danish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy**, a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
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Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring
Smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, is elevated to new heights with the addition of pickled herring. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the richness of buttered rye bread with the tangy sweetness of pickled herring and a hint of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of dark rye bread
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 jar of pickled herring (drained)
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the rye bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. Butter each slice evenly with the softened butter.
4. Top each slice with a spoonful of pickled herring.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemblage only)
Danish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Experience the rich flavors of Denmark with this hearty and comforting meatball recipe, served in a creamy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Butter or oil for browning
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add garlic and mix until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with butter or oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While meatballs are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
8. Gradually add beef broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
9. Serve meatballs with creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes.
Traditional Danish Æbleskiver
Æbleskiver are a classic Danish treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. These small, fluffy pancakes are typically served with powdered sugar and a warm glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a Æbleskiver pan or a non-stick skillet with about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat.
5. Using a ladle, scoop the batter into the hot oil, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Danish Open-Faced Shrimp Sandwich
Experience the simplicity and elegance of Danish cuisine with this open-faced shrimp sandwich. Freshly cooked shrimp, crispy bacon, and creamy mayonnaise come together on a crusty bread base for a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of Danish rye bread
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the shrimp according to package instructions or until pink and tender.
3. Toast the bread slices by placing them on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Top each toasted bread slice with a cooked shrimp, a piece of bacon, and a dollop of mayonnaise.
5. Sprinkle parsley over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Danish Rye Bread
Experience the rich flavor of traditional Danish rye bread with this simple recipe. Made with caraway seeds and a hint of sweetness, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons brown sugar
– 4 cups rye flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add brown sugar, rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
6. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with caraway seeds.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Danish Red Cabbage with Apples
This traditional Danish side dish combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of red cabbage, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. It’s an easy and delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced apples, sugar, and vinegar. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Danish Wienerbrød
Experience the sweet and flaky delight of traditional Danish Wienerbrød, a pastry that’s both familiar and exotic at the same time. This recipe yields a deliciously tender and buttery treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, sugar, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Cut into desired shapes and sizes.
6. Fold the edges of each piece inward, then roll up tightly.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Danish Pork Roast with Crackling
A classic Scandinavian dish that’s sure to please, this Danish Pork Roast with Crackling recipe yields a tender and flavorful roast with a crispy, caramelized crackling on top.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 kg pork shoulder or butt
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 0.5 tsp mustard powder
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 225°C (425°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover it evenly.
4. Place the pork on a wire rack set over a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. Drizzle the apple cider vinegar and vegetable oil over the pork.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the crackling is crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Danish Potato Dumplings
These traditional Danish potato dumplings are a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats and stews. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this classic Scandinavian recipe in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, and salt.
2. Add the beaten egg to the potato mixture and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a golf ball).
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer the dumplings for 15-20 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Danish Blueberry Soup
Experience the sweet and tangy essence of Denmark with this simple yet delightful blueberry soup recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the berries start to release their juice (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the heavy cream, butter, and water to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the blueberries have broken down.
5. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds and solids.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Danish Pickled Cucumber Salad
Experience the classic flavors of Denmark with this refreshing pickled cucumber salad. A perfect side dish or light lunch, it’s a harmonious blend of tangy and sweet.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon dill weed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release excess water.
2. Rinse the cucumber slices with cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seeds, and dill weed. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack the cucumber slices into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Danish Apple Cake with Custard
Savor a traditional Danish treat that combines the warmth of apples and spices with the richness of custard.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Custard ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sugar, 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and milk; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in sliced apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. For the custard: In a small saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and egg yolks; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10 minutes).
8. Serve warm cake with a dollop of custard.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Danish Honey Cake
This traditional Danish cake is a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with honey, butter, and cardamom, it has a unique flavor profile that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and cardamom.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Danish Liver Pâté with Mushrooms
A classic Danish appetizer that combines rich liver pâté with earthy mushrooms, perfect for a cozy evening gathering or as a elegant starter at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or pork liver, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
Instructions:
1. In a pan, sauté the mushrooms in butter until tender and lightly browned.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine liver, heavy cream, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the cooked mushrooms to the liver mixture and blend until well combined.
4. Transfer the pâté to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including mushroom cooking time)
Danish Fish Cakes with Remoulade
Experience the classic combination of Danish fish cakes and tangy remoulade sauce, a staple in Danish cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flaked fish, flour, milk, egg, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Coat each patty with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fish cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve the fish cakes warm with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total (including preparation).
Danish Almond Pastries
These flaky, buttery pastries are filled with a sweet almond paste and topped with a crispy streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup almond paste (homemade or store-bought)
– Streusel topping: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add softened butter, granulated sugar, egg, and almond extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or circles).
5. Place a tablespoon of almond paste in the center of each pastry. Fold dough over filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Danish Braised Beef with Onions
Experience the rich flavors of Denmark with this hearty dish that combines tender beef and caramelized onions. A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 30-40 minutes).
4. Sprinkle flour over onions and stir to combine.
5. Add beef broth and red wine (if using). Return the beef pieces to the pot.
6. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Danish Potato Salad with Dill
A classic Danish side dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. This creamy potato salad is infused with the bright, fresh flavor of dill.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until they’re tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, mayonnaise, chopped dill, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including boiling time)
Danish Cinnamon Rolls
Experience the warm, comforting taste of Denmark with these soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls, infused with sweet and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lukewarm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around edges.
6. Roll the dough into a tight log; cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space for expansion during baking.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Danish Creamy Rice Pudding
Risalamande is a beloved Danish dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. This creamy rice pudding is infused with the sweet flavors of vanilla and almond, making it a delightful treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
1. Combine rice, milk, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
3. Stir in heavy cream, salt, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar and a few blanched almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Denmark with this collection of 20 authentic recipes. From traditional dishes like Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring and Danish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy, to sweet treats like Apple Cake with Custard and Honey Cake, there’s something for everyone. Discover new favorites like Æbleskiver and Wienerbrød, or try classic comfort foods like Pork Roast with Crackling and Potato Dumplings. These recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the heart of Denmark. Dive in and start cooking!
