Scandinavian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and traditions. From hearty stews and meatballs to delicate pastries and sweet treats, these 20 traditional recipes showcase the best of what Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland have to offer.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Scandinavia, exploring dishes that are both familiar and new, comforting and exciting. From classic Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce to Norwegian salmon gravlax, Danish smørrebrød with pickled herring, and Finnish Karelian pasties, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
So grab a cup of coffee or a glass of aquavit, and let’s dive into the world of Scandinavian cuisine!
Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce
Experience the classic flavors of Sweden with this traditional recipe for meatballs and lingonberry sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Lingonberry jam (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, flour, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lingonberry jam spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Norwegian Salmon Gravlax
Experience the bold flavors of Norway with this classic recipe for salmon gravlax. This cured salmon dish is a staple in Norwegian cuisine, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1/4 cup (60ml) sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) salt
– 2 tbsp (30ml) black pepper
– 2 tbsp (30ml) brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh dill
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the salmon fillet on a large plate or tray. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
3. Top with brown sugar, chopped dill, and lemon slices.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. After 24 hours, remove the salmon from the refrigerator and rinse off any excess sugar mixture under cold running water.
6. Pat dry with paper towels before serving.
Cooking Time: None (cured in the refrigerator)
Danish Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring
Smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, is elevated by the tangy flavor of pickled herring. This classic combination is perfect for a quick and easy snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of dark rye bread (preferably a dense, dark Danish-style bread)
– 1/2 cup pickled herring fillets (see note)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
– Fresh dill or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the rye bread into thick pieces and toast until lightly browned.
3. Spread a tablespoon of softened butter on each slice.
4. Place a piece of pickled herring on top of the butter.
5. Dollop a spoonful of crème fraîche or sour cream beside the herring.
6. Garnish with fresh dill or chives, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes toasting bread)
Note: Pickled herring fillets can be found in most Scandinavian stores or online. Alternatively, you can make your own pickled herring at home by marinating fresh herring in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices.
Finnish Karelian Pasties
These traditional Finnish pasties are a staple of Karelian cuisine, filled with potatoes and carrots, wrapped in rye flour dough, and baked to perfection. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rye flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Filling ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rye flour, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in the egg until dough forms.
5. Divide dough into 4-6 equal pieces.
6. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
7. Place 1/2 cup of filling in center of each circle.
8. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or square shape.
9. Press edges together to seal.
10. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Icelandic Lamb Stew
This traditional Icelandic stew is a staple of the country’s cuisine, made with tender lamb, root vegetables, and aromatic spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large turnip, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, turnip, thyme, and allspice. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Swedish Cinnamon Buns
These soft, sweet, and indulgent pastries are a classic Swedish treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With the combination of cardamom and cinnamon, these buns will transport you to the cozy streets of Stockholm.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together yeast, melted butter, milk, and egg.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then let it rest for 1 hour in a warm place.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (0.3 cm).
6. Sprinkle cinnamon and cardamom evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long side.
8. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 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)
Fårikål is a traditional Norwegian stew that warms the heart and soul. This hearty dish is made with tender lamb, sweet cabbage, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 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 the onion, carrots, potatoes, cabbage, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or boiled potatoes.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Danish Æbleskiver (Pancake Balls)
Æbleskiver, also known as pancake balls, are a beloved Danish treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These sweet and fluffy bites are typically served at breakfast or brunch, but they’re just as delicious as an afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium 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 smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or æbleskiver pan over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter into the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to lift.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch
Finnish Rye Bread
Finnish rye bread is a classic Scandinavian bread that’s dark, dense, and full of flavor. This recipe yields a deliciously crusty loaf with a slightly sweet and tangy taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 3/4 cups lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, caraway seeds, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Icelandic Skyr Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect representation of Icelandic cuisine, showcasing the country’s love for dairy products. With its light texture and subtle sweetness, this skyr-based cake is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) skyr
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together skyr, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Swedish Janssons Frestelse (Potato Casserole)
This creamy, comforting potato casserole is a beloved Swedish dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder why Janssons Frestelse remains a staple in many Swedish kitchens.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Västerbottensost cheese (or similar strong cheddar)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, softened butter, heavy cream, Västerbottensost cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until potatoes are well coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Arrange potato mixture in the prepared dish, overlapping slices slightly.
5. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill on top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown and casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Norwegian Lefse (Potato Flatbread)
Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread made from potatoes, flour, and water. This recipe yields soft, slightly sweet, and delicate lefse that’s perfect for wrapping around your favorite fillings or serving with butter and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cooked through
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Grate the cooled potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape using a rolling pin or your hands.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook lefse for 30-45 seconds on each side, until lightly browned and crispy.
8. Serve warm with your favorite fillings or toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Danish Red Berry Pudding
Enjoy a sweet and tangy treat with this classic Danish dessert, featuring a mix of juicy red berries and creamy pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups milk
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the berries and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the berries release their juice (about 10 minutes).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and a splash of milk until smooth. Add the egg yolks and whisk until well combined.
3. Gradually add the remaining milk to the saucepan with the berry mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and cornstarch mixture. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Refrigerate until chilled (at least 2 hours).
Cooking Time: None required – just chill!
Finnish Salmon Soup
This traditional Finnish soup is a staple of winter comfort food, made with fresh salmon, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add salmon fillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Icelandic Plokkfiskur (Fish Stew)
Plokkfiskur is a hearty and flavorful fish stew that originates from Iceland, typically made with cod or other white fish. This traditional recipe is a staple in Icelandic cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of cod or other white fish, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the fish, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in the milk and add the tomato paste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Swedish Princess Cake
This classic Swedish dessert is a show-stopping centerpiece for any celebration. Layers of moist sponge cake, sweet whipped cream, and tart raspberry preserves create a heavenly treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Whipped cream and raspberry preserves for assembly
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add milk, melted butter, and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until springs back when touched.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
6. Assemble the cake by spreading whipped cream on each layer, followed by a layer of raspberry preserves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including baking time)
Norwegian Cloudberry Cream
Discover the sweet and tangy flavors of Norway with this traditional cloudberry cream recipe. This creamy delight is perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, or even using as a dessert base.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons cloudberry jam (or substitute with raspberry or blueberry jam)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in salt, cloudberry jam, and butter until smooth.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Danish Rugbrød (Rye Bread)
Experience the authentic flavor of Denmark with this classic rugbrød recipe, made with rye flour, caraway seeds, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, water, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Add sugar and yeast; mix until fully incorporated.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 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.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Finnish Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pies)
Experience the traditional flavors of Karelia with these savory, buttery pies, a staple in Finnish cuisine. Karjalanpiirakka is typically served as an accompaniment to meals or enjoyed as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and sugar to taste
– 1/2 cup rye flour (optional)
– Filling of your choice (e.g. rice, mashed potatoes, or ground meat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, melted butter, lukewarm water, beaten egg, salt, and sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
3. If using rye flour, add it to the dough and mix well.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
6. Place your chosen filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press edges together.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Icelandic Brennivín Cured Salmon
Experience the bold flavors of Icelandic cuisine with this simple and elegant recipe, featuring brennivín-infused cured salmon. This unique combination of sweet and savory notes will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup brennivín (Icelandic caraway-flavored spirit)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns, crushed
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brennivín, brown sugar, kosher salt, and crushed black peppercorns.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray.
4. Brush the brennivín mixture evenly onto both sides of the salmon, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the top of each fillet.
6. Cure for 2-3 days in the refrigerator, flipping the salmon halfway through.
7. Remove from fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed – simply serve and enjoy!
Summary
Discover the rich culinary heritage of Scandinavia with these 20 traditional recipes. From savory dishes like Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce and Norwegian Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew) to sweet treats like Danish Smørrebrød with Pickled Herring and Icelandic Skyr Cake, this article takes you on a flavorful journey across the region. Learn how to make classic Scandinavian staples like Finnish Karelian Pasties, Norwegian Lefse (Potato Flatbread), and Swedish Janssons Frestelse (Potato Casserole). Perfect for adventurous cooks and those looking to explore new flavors.