As the snowflakes gently fall onto the charming streets of Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo, the aroma of sweet pastries and savory stews wafts through the air. It’s a sensory experience that can only be achieved by immersing yourself in the world of Scandinavian cuisine. With its rich history of Viking traditions, medieval trading routes, and modern-day flavors, the Nordic region offers a treasure trove of authentic recipes that will transport your taste buds to the land of the midnight sun.
From the classic Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce to the delicate Norwegian salmon gravlax with dill mustard sauce, and from the hearty Danish smørrebrød with pickled herring to the flaky Finnish Karelian pasties with egg butter – each dish is a testament to the region’s culinary heritage. In this article, we’ll explore 19 authentic Scandinavian recipes that will give you a taste of the real Nordic experience. So grab your apron, put on your favorite Scandinavian playlist, and let the cooking begin!
Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Sweden with this classic recipe that combines tender meatballs with a tangy and sweet lingonberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 cup lingonberry jam or preserves
– 1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small saucepan, combine lingonberry jam and beef broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve meatballs with warm lingonberry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Norwegian Salmon Gravlax with Dill Mustard Sauce
Salmon gravlax is a classic Norwegian dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the brightness of dill and a tangy mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1/4 cup (60ml) kosher salt
– 2 tbsp (30ml) brown sugar
– 2 tbsp (30ml) granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp (30ml) white vinegar
– 1 tsp (5ml) black pepper
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh dill
– Dill Mustard Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together salt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vinegar.
2. Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish or tray. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the fish.
3. Let the salmon sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Rinse the salmon under cold running water to remove excess salt and sugar.
5. Slice the salmon into thin pieces.
Dill Mustard Sauce:
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120ml) Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp (30ml) Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp (5ml) chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-cured dish.
Danish Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring
A traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, Smørrebrød combines crispy rye bread with creamy butter and tangy pickled herring. A delicious and flavorful snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of dark Danish rye bread (or similar)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup pickled herring fillets (see note), drained and flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the rye bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. Butter each slice of bread on one side, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top each buttered slice with a spoonful of pickled herring.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
Finnish Karelian Pasties with Egg Butter
Experience the authentic flavors of Finland with these traditional Karelian pasties, served with a rich and creamy egg butter. These savory pies are a staple in Finnish cuisine and perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Egg butter ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef or pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Egg Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired pasty size.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Seal edges with a fork and brush with melted butter.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. While pasties are baking, mix egg butter ingredients in a bowl.
10. Serve warm pasties with egg butter on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Icelandic Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s night. The combination of tender lamb, root vegetables, and aromatic spices will warm your senses and fill your belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb pieces on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, turnips, and potato to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are slightly tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, beef broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the lamb to the pot and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)
These sweet and sticky buns are a classic Swedish treat, filled with the warmth of cinnamon and cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add milk, egg, and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Sprinkle cinnamon and cardamom evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long side.
7. Cut into 12-15 equal pieces.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each bun.
9. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until almost doubled in size.
10. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Norwegian Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew)
Fårikål, a hearty and comforting stew, is a staple of Norwegian cuisine. This flavorful dish combines tender lamb with sweet and sour cabbage in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb shoulder or neck, cut into small pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups lamb or beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb in a little oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, cabbage, carrot, potato, and allspice. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Pour in broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Danish Æbleskiver with Raspberry Jam
Æbleskiver are traditional Danish pancakes that resemble small balls or eggs. They’re typically served warm with a sweet and tangy jam, such as raspberry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Raspberry jam, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or æbleskiver pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter onto the skillet, about 1 tablespoon each.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the Æbleskiver are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve warm with raspberry jam.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Finnish Lohikeitto (Creamy Salmon Soup)
A classic Finnish soup that’s both comforting and flavorful, this Creamy Salmon Soup is a staple of Scandinavian cuisine. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s no wonder this soup has become a beloved tradition in many Finnish households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add fish stock, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add salmon fillet; cook for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Icelandic Skyr Cake with Berries
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of creamy skyr, sweet berries, and tender crumbs. Perfect for a dessert or snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Icelandic skyr
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine skyr, sugar, and melted butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add egg and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add flour mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in berries.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Let cool, then dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Swedish Janssons Frestelse (Jansson’s Temptation)
A classic Swedish side dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This creamy, cheesy, anchovy-studded casserole is perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups grated Västerbottensost cheese (or similar Swedish cheese)
– 2/3 cup heavy cream
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Arrange half of the potato slices in the prepared dish.
4. Sprinkle with half of the cheese, cream, and anchovy mixture.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Norwegian Lefse with Butter and Sugar
Discover the sweet and buttery side of Norwegian cuisine with this classic lefse recipe, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired lefse size.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Cook lefse in a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-45 seconds per side, until slightly puffed and lightly browned.
6. Brush cooked lefse with softened butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per lefse (total of 12-18 minutes)
Danish Rødgrød med Fløde (Red Berry Pudding)
A classic Danish dessert, Rødgrød med Fløde is a sweet and tangy pudding made with red berries and topped with whipped cream. This simple recipe brings together the flavors of summer in a deliciously comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed red berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large egg yolks
– Butter or margarine for greasing the pudding bowl
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in milk, egg yolks, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Grease a 1-quart pudding bowl with butter or margarine.
5. Pour the cooled berry mixture into the prepared pudding bowl.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Top with whipped cream before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Finnish Pulla (Cardamom Bread)
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of Finland with this traditional pulla recipe, infused with the sweetness of cardamom and a hint of buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup sugar
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm milk
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
3. Add lukewarm milk, eggs, melted butter, and cardamom. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in the prepared pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Let cool on a wire rack before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Icelandic Plokkfiskur (Fish Stew)
A hearty and comforting Icelandic fish stew, made with a variety of fish and vegetables, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed fish (cod, haddock, and/or halibut), cut into large chunks
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the fish and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the potatoes, onion, garlic, milk, and flour to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Swedish Lingonberry Jam
This classic Swedish jam recipe is a staple of Scandinavian cuisine, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for pastries. Lingonberries have a unique tartness that balances perfectly with the sweetness of sugar and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups lingonberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lingonberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a large pot, combine the lingonberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam has thickened and the berries have popped.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon stick. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the jam through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
6. Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Norwegian Krumkake with Whipped Cream
Traditional Norwegian krumkaker are thin, crisp cookies that are perfect for dunking in coffee or tea. This recipe adds a sweet and creamy twist by serving the krumkaker with whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a krumkake pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, confectioner’s sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Drop 1 tablespoon of batter onto the preheated pan and spread evenly to form a thin cookie.
6. Cook for 30-45 seconds or until the edges start to curl.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, then serve krumkakes warm with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on number of cookies)
Danish Smørrebrød with Roast Beef and Remoulade
Experience the classic Danish open-faced sandwich, Smørrebrød, elevated by tender roast beef and tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of dense, dark rye bread (such as Pumpernickel)
– 1 pound roast beef, thinly sliced
– Remoulade sauce (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together remoulade ingredients (below). Set aside.
3. Butter each bread slice on one side.
4. Place a slice of roast beef on each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with remoulade sauce and serve.
Remoulade Recipe:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Time:
– Roast beef: 20-25 minutes, or until desired doneness.
– Assembly: 5-10 minutes.
Finnish Riisipuuro (Rice Pudding)
A classic comfort dessert in Finland, Riisipuuro is a creamy and sweet rice pudding that’s easy to make. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a warm treat on a cold winter day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine it with milk, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. If using cardamom, add it now.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Scandinavia with these 19 authentic recipes! From Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce to Norwegian gravlax with dill mustard sauce, and from Danish smørrebrød with pickled herring to Finnish Karelian pasties with egg butter, this collection has something for everyone. Discover traditional dishes like Icelandic lamb stew, Swedish cinnamon buns, and Norwegian färikål, as well as sweet treats like Danish åbleskiver with raspberry jam and Finnish pulla (cardamom bread). These recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the Nordic countries!
