Sweden, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, is also home to a rich culinary tradition. From hearty meatballs and creamy sauces to sweet treats like cinnamon buns and sticky chocolate cake, there’s something for everyone in Swedish cuisine. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 authentic Swedish recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.
Whether you’re looking for comfort food, sweet indulgences, or bold flavors, these traditional Swedish dishes will transport you to the charming streets of Stockholm and the rolling countryside of Lapland. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some Swedish flair, and let’s start our culinary adventure!
Swedish Meatballs with Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Sweden with this classic meatball dish smothered in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the cream sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gravlax with Mustard Sauce
This Scandinavian-inspired dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal. Thinly sliced gravlax, cured in a mixture of sugar, salt, and spices, is served with a tangy mustard sauce that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons aquavit or white wine
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
– 1/4 cup mustard sauce (see below)
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, kosher salt, brown sugar, and aquavit.
2. Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish and cover with the sugar mixture. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Just before serving, slice the gravlax into thin pieces.
4. Serve with mustard sauce (see below) and garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Mustard Sauce:
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Janssons Frestelse (Jansson’s Temptation)
A classic Swedish recipe that combines the simplicity of potatoes, cream, and onions with the richness of anchovies. Perfect as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 can of anchovy fillets (drained)
– 100ml heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds.
3. In a large baking dish, create a layer of overlapping potato slices.
4. Sprinkle a third of the sliced onions over the potatoes, followed by a quarter of the anchovy fillets.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 two more times, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the top layer of potatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Swedish Pancakes with Lingonberries
Start your day with a delicious and authentic Swedish treat! These light and airy pancakes are served with sweet-tart lingonberry jam, making for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– Lingonberry jam (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and eggs.
2. Add milk, salt, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve warm with lingonberry jam.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on pancake size).
Smörgåstårta (Swedish Sandwich Cake)
Experience the delightful fusion of traditional Swedish flavors and modern cake-making techniques with this Smörgåstårta recipe. This innovative dessert combines layers of moist sponge cake, creamy whipped cream, and sweet jam-filled sandwiches for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup strawberry jam
– 12-15 sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos or similar)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, and butter until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Allow the cake to cool completely.
5. Assemble the Smörgåstårta by spreading whipped cream on top of the cooled cake, then sandwiching cookie layers with strawberry jam in between.
6. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Köttbullar med Potatismos (Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes)
A classic Swedish dish that combines tender meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into large chunks
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Butter to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Mix minced beef, onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 30-40 pieces.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk or heavy cream, adding butter to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Raggmunk (Swedish Potato Pancakes)
Start your day with a traditional Swedish breakfast treat – crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, Raggmunks are a delicious potato pancake recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and baking powder.
2. Mix well to form a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat with about 1/8 inch of vegetable oil.
4. Using a tablespoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, spreading slightly to form a pancake shape.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chopped herbs, or lingonberry jam.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for 8-10 Raggmunks.
Enjoy your delicious Swedish potato pancakes!
Prinsesstårta (Princess Cake)
A classic Swedish dessert, Prinsesstårta is a layered sponge cake filled with whipped cream and fruit preserves. This recipe yields a moist and decadent treat perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup fruit preserves (such as raspberry or strawberry)
– Fresh fruit for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cakes are golden brown.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely.
7. Assemble the cake by spreading whipped cream between layers and topping with fruit preserves.
8. Garnish with fresh fruit and serve.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Pepparkakor (Swedish Gingerbread Cookies)
These traditional Swedish cookies are a staple during the holiday season, with their spicy aroma and sweet flavor. Perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, or snacking on while enjoying some festive cheer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Decorations of your choice (e.g. icing, candies, or chopped nuts)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and spices.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Gradually add water while kneading the dough until it’s smooth and pliable.
5. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g. hearts, stars, or circles).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until firm and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kanelbullar (Swedish Cinnamon Buns)
Kanelbullar, also known as Swedish cinnamon buns, are a classic Scandinavian treat that fills the air with sweet and spicy aromas. These soft, fluffy buns are perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a warm water bath, activate the yeast by letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
2. Mix flour, salt, and sugar in a separate bowl.
3. Add melted butter, milk, egg, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
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. Roll out the dough, spread with butter and cinnamon mixture, roll up, cut into buns, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Surströmming (Fermented Baltic Herring)
This traditional Swedish delicacy requires patience and a willingness to venture into the world of fermentation. With its bold, pungent flavor, Surströmming is a love-it-or-hate-it experience that’s sure to spark conversation at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen Baltic herring (or other oily fish)
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon potassium sorbate (optional, but recommended for a longer fermentation period)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the herring under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together water, salt, sugar, and potassium sorbate (if using).
3. Place the herring in a clean glass jar or container, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
4. Pour the brine mixture over the fish, making sure it’s completely covered.
5. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place (around 50°F to 60°F) for 3-6 months, shaking the jar every week or two to redistribute the liquid.
Cooking Time: None needed! Let the fermentation process do its magic.
Pytt i Panna (Swedish Hash)
A classic Swedish dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch, Pytt i Panna is a hearty mix of potatoes, onions, and sausage.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 sausages (Swedish style or similar), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced sausages and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Ärtsoppa med Pannkakor (Pea Soup with Pancakes)
In this traditional Swedish recipe, the creamy pea soup is served alongside fluffy pancakes for a hearty and comforting meal. This combination may seem unusual, but trust us – it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split peas
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Milk, as needed
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and boil the peas with chopped onion, carrot, and celery until tender.
3. Blend the mixture to desired consistency, then season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and flour. Gradually add milk to form a smooth batter.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Serve the pea soup hot with freshly cooked pancakes.
Cooking Time: approximately 30 minutes
Kroppkakor (Swedish Potato Dumplings)
A classic Swedish comfort food, Kroppkakor are boiled potato dumplings that can be served as a side dish or used as a base for various toppings.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Butter or vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Beat in the egg until well combined.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato mixture into the boiling water.
5. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the Kroppkakor float to the surface.
6. Remove from the pot with a slotted spoon and serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lussekatts (Saffron Buns)
These sweet, spiced buns are a beloved Christmas tradition in Sweden, flavored with the unique and aromatic spice of saffron. Perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, salt, cardamom, and saffron mixture. Mix until a shaggy 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 about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into small buns and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kladdkaka (Sticky Chocolate Cake)
This classic Swedish dessert is a rich and decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving. With its gooey center and crispy edges, Kladdkaka is the perfect indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blodpudding (Swedish Blood Pudding)
A traditional Swedish dish made with pork blood, oatmeal, and spices, Blodpudding is a hearty and flavorful treat. This recipe provides a classic take on this beloved Swedish delicacy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork blood
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup beef suet or vegetable shortening
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pork blood, oats, suet or shortening, onion, salt, black pepper, and allspice.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a clean cloth or cheesecloth, tying it securely to form a compact shape.
4. Boil the wrapped mixture in a large pot of water for 1-2 hours, or until cooked through and firm to the touch.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Smörgåsbord (Swedish Buffet Spread)
Experience the flavors of Sweden with this delightful buffet spread, perfect for special occasions or everyday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup pickled herring, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, pickled herring, capers, and salt.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Top with thinly sliced red onion and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serves: 8-10 people
Kåldolmar (Swedish Cabbage Rolls)
Kåldolmar is a classic Swedish dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. This recipe brings together the simplicity of cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of green cabbage
– 500g ground beef or pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head. Blanch the remaining leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds. Shock in an ice bath to stop cooking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, and caraway seeds. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in both sides and roll up the cabbage to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the cabbage rolls for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Semlor (Swedish Cream Buns)
These sweet, tender buns are a classic Swedish treat during Advent season. Filled with whipped cream and topped with a marzipan almond, Semlor are the perfect sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Marzipan almonds (about 12), toasted
– Whipped cream, for filling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
6. Place the dough on a floured surface and roll out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter to create shapes.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Allow the buns to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and topping with marzipan almonds.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and traditions of Sweden with these 20 authentic recipes. From classic comfort foods like Swedish Meatballs with Cream Sauce to sweet treats like Kanelbullar (Swedish Cinnamon Buns), there’s something for everyone. Explore traditional dishes like Gravlax with Mustard Sauce, Janssons Frestelse (Jansson’s Temptation), and Surströmming (Fermented Baltic Herring), as well as modern twists on old favorites. Discover the unique flavors of Sweden and bring a taste of Nordic culture to your table.
