As the cold winter months approach, there’s nothing like a warm and cozy Scandinavian meal to comfort your senses. The rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and welcoming aromas of these dishes are sure to transport you to a warm and inviting kitchen, reminiscent of the traditional smorgasbords found in Nordic countries. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious and comforting Scandinavian recipes that are perfect for a chilly evening in.
From classic Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce to Norwegian salmon gravlax with dill mustard sauce, Danish smørrebrød with pickled herring, and Finnish Karelian pasties with egg butter, each of these recipes offers a taste of the warmth and hospitality that is quintessential to Scandinavian cuisine. So grab your apron, put on some cozy socks, and let’s get cooking!
Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce
Experience the authentic taste of Sweden with this classic recipe combining tender meatballs and sweet-tart lingonberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup lingonberry jam
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 40-50). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, mix lingonberry jam and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and stir until melted.
6. Serve warm meatballs with lingonberry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Norwegian Salmon Gravlax with Dill Mustard Sauce
Experience the authentic flavors of Norway with this classic salmon gravlax recipe, served with a tangy and refreshing dill mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet (preferably wild-caught)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp salt
– 1 tbsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp aquavit or white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillet on a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, skin side down (if it has skin). Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the fish.
4. If using aquavit or white wine, pour 1-2 tablespoons over the salmon.
5. Roll the salmon tightly in the parchment paper or foil to form a compact cylinder.
6. Place the rolled salmon on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
7. To make the dill mustard sauce, mix together Greek yogurt, whole-grain mustard, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
8. Unroll the gravlax and serve with the dill mustard sauce.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (curing time) + 15 minutes to prepare the sauce
Danish Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring
A classic Danish open-faced sandwich featuring pickled herring and a medley of toppings on rye bread, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of dark rye bread (preferably stale)
– 1/2 cup of pickled herring (svømming), drained and sliced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter each slice of rye bread on one side.
3. Arrange the pickled herring slices on top of the buttered bread.
4. Sprinkle with chopped dill, chives, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes to warm the bread and melt the butter.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
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. This recipe is a staple in Finnish cuisine, perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Egg butter ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Egg Butter:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix flour and cold butter until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place the filling in the center of each circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Fold the dough over the filling and press edges together with a fork.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Meanwhile, mix eggs and softened butter in a bowl.
10. Serve warm pasties with egg butter on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Icelandic Lamb Soup (Kjötsúpa)
A hearty and comforting soup originating from Iceland, Kjötsúpa is a staple dish that warms the soul. This recipe combines tender lamb with aromatic vegetables and spices to create a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the carrots, celery, garlic, and potato. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)
These sweet and sticky buns are a classic Swedish treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and cardamom creates a deliciously aromatic pastry that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add lukewarm milk, melted butter, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix until a sticky 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. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or triangles).
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each bun.
7. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Norwegian Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew)
This hearty stew is a traditional Norwegian dish that combines tender lamb with flavorful cabbage, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its rich aroma and comforting warmth, Fårikål is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium cabbages, shredded
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the shredded cabbage, salt, and pepper; stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Danish Æbleskiver (Pancake Puffs)
Æbleskiver are a traditional Danish treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. These crispy and fluffy pancake puffs are typically filled with sweet and tangy toppings like jam, powdered sugar, and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., jam, powdered sugar, whipped cream)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 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 ladle, pour the batter into the skillet to form small pancake puffs.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Finnish Lohikeitto (Creamy Salmon Soup)
This hearty and flavorful soup is a staple of Finnish cuisine, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a comforting pick-me-up. With its rich salmon broth and creamy texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has been passed down through generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless salmon fillet
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish stock or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the salmon fillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes, fish stock, and cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Icelandic Rye Bread (Rúgbrauð)
Experience the traditional Icelandic flavor with this classic rye bread recipe, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes. This dense and slightly sweet bread is a staple in Icelandic cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt.
3. Add caraway seeds and mix well.
4. Gradually add lukewarm water and buttermilk, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Shape into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until dark brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Swedish Janssons Frestelse (Creamy Potato Anchovy Bake)
A classic Swedish dish that combines the humble potato with salty anchovies and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 can of anchovies in oil, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, chopped anchovies, and a pinch of salt.
3. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer the potato mixture.
4. Add a sprinkle of onion and garlic on top of the potatoes.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, making sure to cover all the potatoes.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Norwegian Cloudberry Jam with Waffles
Start your day with a sweet and tangy Norwegian twist! This recipe combines the tartness of cloudberries with the crispy goodness of waffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cloudberry jam (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fresh whipped cream and cloudberries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with a dollop of cloudberry jam and whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Danish Red Berry Pudding (Rødgrød med Fløde)
A classic Danish dessert, Rødgrød med Fløde is a creamy pudding flavored with red berries and topped with whipped cream. This simple recipe yields a deliciously light and fruity treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup cooked red berries (such as lingonberries or cranberries)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in red berries, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour into individual serving cups or a 1-quart baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow pudding to set.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Finnish Karjalanpiirakka (Rye Pastry with Rice Filling)
Experience the authentic flavors of Finland with this traditional recipe for Karjalanpiirakka, a delicious rye pastry filled with savory rice. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cold water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 2 cups cooked rice
+ 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
+ 1/4 cup grated Västerbottensost cheese (or similar)
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rye flour, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and cold water; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into disk shapes.
7. Place a spoonful of rice filling in the center of each pastry.
8. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle or square shape.
9. Brush the tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Icelandic Skyr Cake with Berries
Experience the flavors of Iceland with this moist and creamy cake, infused with the sweetness of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup Skyr (Icelandic yogurt)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by Skyr and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Arrange mixed berries on top of the cake, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around edges.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Swedish Glögg (Mulled Wine)
Swedish Glögg, also known as Mulled Wine, is a popular winter drink in Sweden that’s perfect for cold nights. This recipe combines the rich flavors of red wine, spices, and citrus to create a warm and inviting beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced orange and lemon, and stir to combine.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in the sugar and water until dissolved.
6. Remove from heat and let it steep for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Norwegian Lefse (Potato Flatbread)
Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, is a staple in many Scandinavian households. This recipe brings the warm, comforting taste of homemade lefse to your table.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Gradually add in the milk and water, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or lefse griddle over medium-high heat.
6. Cook the lefse for 30-45 seconds on each side, until they are lightly browned and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes (6-8 lefses)
Danish Smoked Eel on Rye Bread
Experience the bold flavors of Denmark with this simple and delicious recipe for Smoked Eel on Rye Bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup smoked eel (finned or skinless)
– 4 slices rye bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your broiler.
2. Slice the rye bread into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
3. Spread a tablespoon of butter on each slice of bread.
4. Place a piece of smoked eel on top of the butter.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the bread under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 Scandinavian recipes perfect for comforting evenings. From hearty stews and soups to sweet treats and breads, this collection has something for everyone. Try Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce, Norwegian Salmon Gravlax with Dill Mustard Sauce, or Danish Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring. Or, indulge in Finnish Karelian Pasties with Egg Butter, Icelandic Lamb Soup (Kjötsapa), and more. Whether you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal or a sweet treat to brighten up your evening, these Scandinavian recipes are sure to satisfy.
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