Sweden Cuisine
Europe ⢠Northern Europe
65 iconic dishes
Signature Sweden Dishes
đ˝ď¸Main Dishes(24)
Falukorv (Swedish Sausage)
A classic and comforting Swedish everyday meal featuring pan-fried or baked Falukorv sausage, traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes and mustard. This recipe is based on a tradition originating from the Falun copper mines.
Falukorv Stroganoff
Swedish sausage stroganoff - family favorite. Quick dinner.
Flygande Jacob (Flying Jacob)
A beloved 1970s Swedish comfort food casserole featuring tender chicken, sweet bananas, crispy bacon, and a creamy chili sauce. Despite its unusual combination, it's a surprisingly delicious and satisfying dish.
Hasselbackspotatis
Hasselbackspotatis, or Swedish accordion potatoes, are a classic restaurant side dish where potatoes are thinly sliced almost all the way through, creating a crispy, fan-like appearance when baked. This recipe enhances the traditional method with a flavorful butter and Parmesan coating.
Inkokt Lax (Swedish Poached Salmon)
A classic Swedish dish of salmon gently poached in a flavorful court bouillon. This method results in incredibly tender and moist fish, perfect served either warm or cold. It's an elegant yet simple dish, ideal for summer gatherings.
Isterband
Isterband is a traditional Swedish fermented sausage, particularly popular in the SmĂĽland region. It's characterized by its slightly sour, tangy flavor and firm texture, achieved through a fermentation process. This recipe details how to make it from scratch.
Jansson's Frestelse (Jansson's Temptation)
Jansson's Temptation is a beloved Swedish Christmas classic, a rich and creamy potato gratin infused with the savory flavor of Swedish anchovies (ansjovis) and sweet, softened onions. This dish is surprisingly approachable, even for those wary of anchovies, as their flavor mellows beautifully during baking.
Janssons Frestelse (Jansson's Temptation)
A classic Swedish potato gratin, Jansson's Frestelse is a rich and comforting dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and savory anchovies baked in a creamy sauce until golden and bubbling. It's a beloved centerpiece of Swedish Christmas feasts.
Janssons Frestelse (Jansson's Temptation)
Jansson's Temptation is a beloved Swedish potato gratin, traditionally served during Christmas. It features thinly sliced potatoes layered with sweet, caramelized onions and the distinct umami of Swedish anchovies (ansjovis), all baked in a rich cream and milk mixture until golden and bubbling. Its name is a playful nod to opera singer Pelle Janzon, who was rumored to be a fan.
Julskinka (Swedish Christmas Ham)
A traditional Swedish Christmas ham, this Julskinka features a succulent, slow-cooked ham coated in a flavorful mustard and breadcrumb crust, baked to golden perfection. It's a stunning centerpiece for any holiday feast.
KĂĽldolmar (Swedish Cabbage Rolls)
Hearty and comforting Swedish cabbage rolls, traditionally stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, then baked in a rich sauce. A taste of history and home.
Korvstroganoff (Swedish Sausage Stroganoff)
A beloved Swedish household staple, this Korvstroganoff is a quick, creamy, and flavorful sausage and onion dish, perfect for a speedy weeknight family dinner. It's a comforting classic that's surprisingly simple to make.
KĂśttbullar med Lingonsylt
Authentic Swedish meatballs (kĂśttbullar) served with a rich cream sauce and the essential sweet-tart lingonberry jam. This recipe focuses on traditional flavors and a tender texture, going beyond the familiar IKEA version with the subtle warmth of allspice and the richness of a homemade cream sauce.
KÜttfärslimpa (Swedish Meatloaf)
A classic Swedish comfort food, this kÜttfärslimpa (meatloaf) is tender, flavorful, and traditionally served with a rich cream sauce. Perfect for a hearty family meal.
Lutfisk
A traditional Swedish Christmas delicacy, Lutfisk is made from dried whitefish (stockfish) that has been treated with a lye solution. This process rehydrates and softens the fish, giving it a unique, gelatinous texture. It's a dish that evokes strong opinions â either loved or disliked.
Pyttipanna (Swedish Hash)
A classic Swedish comfort dish, Pyttipanna, meaning 'small pieces in a pan', is a hearty hash made from finely diced leftover cooked potatoes, meat, and onions, fried until golden and crispy, and traditionally topped with a fried egg. Perfect for using up leftovers!
Rotmos (Swedish Root Vegetable Mash)
A comforting and rustic Swedish root vegetable mash, traditionally featuring rutabaga, potatoes, and carrots. Perfect as a hearty side dish.
Rotmos med Fläsk (Root Vegetable Mash with Pork)
A hearty and comforting Swedish winter classic, featuring tender, slow-cooked salted pork belly served atop a rustic mash of root vegetables. Perfect for a cold day.
Saffransbullar (Lussekatter)
Traditional Swedish saffron buns, often shaped into an 'S' or 'Lussekatt' (Lucia cat), are a beloved treat, especially for St. Lucia's Day on December 13th. The vibrant yellow hue comes from the precious saffron, and the sweet, aromatic dough is enriched with butter and milk.
SmĂśrgĂĽsbord
A traditional Swedish buffet featuring a wide array of dishes, typically served during celebrations and holidays. It's designed for guests to enjoy multiple courses and selections.
Stekt Fläsk (Swedish Fried Pork Belly)
A beloved Swedish classic featuring perfectly fried, crispy pork belly slices, traditionally served with a creamy onion sauce, boiled potatoes, and a dollop of lingonberry jam.
Stekt StrĂśmming (Fried Baltic Herring)
A classic Stockholm dish of pan-fried Baltic herring, coated in rye flour and served with creamy mashed potatoes and tart lingonberries. This recipe focuses on achieving a perfectly crispy exterior and tender, flaky fish.
Swedish Meatballs
Sweden's beloved kĂśttbullar - tender meatballs in a rich, creamy gravy, traditionally served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam for a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Wallenbergare (Swedish Veal Patties)
Wallenbergare are a classic Swedish fine-dining dish, featuring exceptionally tender and creamy veal patties. This recipe elevates the traditional preparation for a truly luxurious experience.
đĽAppetizer Dishes(11)
Chokladbollar (Swedish Chocolate Balls)
Chokladbollar are a beloved no-bake Swedish treat, perfect for 'fika' (coffee break). These simple, rich chocolate balls are quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
Gravlax (Nordic Cured Salmon)
A classic Nordic delicacy, this gravlax features fresh salmon cured to perfection with a fragrant blend of salt, sugar, dill, and pepper. The process is simple, requiring no cooking, just time and patience. The result is a silky, flavorful salmon, ideal for appetizers, smørrebrød, or alongside a brunch spread. Served with a traditional mustard-dill sauce.
Gravlax (Traditional Cure)
Sugar and salt-cured salmon, an ancient Nordic preservation method now a celebrated delicacy. This recipe includes instructions for the classic hovmästarsüs (sweet mustard sauce).
GubbrĂśra (Swedish Anchovy Egg Salad)
GubbrĂśra, meaning 'old man's mix' or 'gubby's mix,' is a classic Swedish appetizer or side dish, often found on the smĂśrgĂĽsbord. It's a simple yet flavorful blend of chopped hard-boiled eggs, salty anchovies, fresh chives, and a creamy binder, traditionally served on crisp rye bread.
Inlagd Sill (Swedish Pickled Herring)
A foundational Swedish delicacy, Inlagd Sill (pickled herring) is a versatile and essential component of traditional Swedish cuisine, particularly during holidays and celebrations like Midsummer. This recipe provides a basic pickling brine that can be adapted for numerous variations.
Kroppkakor (Swedish Potato Dumplings)
Kroppkakor are traditional Swedish potato dumplings, with the Ăland specialty featuring a savory filling of seasoned pork and onions. They are hearty, comforting, and best served with lingonberry jam and melted butter.
Kryddsill (Swedish Spiced Herring)
A classic Swedish appetizer featuring tender herring fillets delicately pickled in a fragrant brine with allspice and bay leaves. This dish is a staple of the traditional Swedish smĂśrgĂĽsbord and is best enjoyed after allowing the flavors to meld for at least 24 hours.
Palt
Hearty Northern Swedish potato dumplings filled with savory salted pork. A traditional and filling dish from the Norrland region.
Sillsallad (Swedish Herring Salad)
A classic Swedish Sillsallad, a vibrant and flavorful salad featuring pickled herring, tender beets, boiled potatoes, crisp apple, and a creamy dressing. Perfect as a starter or part of a festive smĂśrgĂĽsbord.
Toast Skagen
An elegant and classic Swedish appetizer featuring creamy shrimp salad piled high on toasted bread, often garnished with roe and fresh dill.
Västerbottenpaj
A savory tart featuring Sweden's most prized and intensely flavored Västerbotten cheese, baked in a crisp shortcrust pastry. This classic Swedish dish is perfect for celebrations or as an elegant appetizer.
đ˛Soup Dishes(7)
Ărtsoppa (Swedish Yellow Pea Soup)
A hearty and traditional Swedish yellow pea soup, often enjoyed on Thursdays, typically served with thin Swedish pancakes (pannkakor) and mustard. This recipe includes pork belly for a rich flavor.
Ărtsoppa (Traditional Swedish Split Pea Soup)
A hearty and comforting traditional Swedish split pea soup, famously served on Thursdays. This recipe features tender pork and a rich, savory broth, perfect for a cold day. It's traditionally accompanied by thin Swedish pancakes (pannkakor) and lingonberry jam.
Ărtsoppa med Fläskkorv (Swedish Pea Soup with Smoked Pork Sausage)
A hearty and traditional Swedish pea soup, famously served on Thursdays, accompanied by smoked pork sausage and thin pancakes. This recipe focuses on the classic preparation, ensuring a rich flavor and comforting texture.
Ărtsoppa med Pannkakor (Swedish Yellow Pea Soup with Pancakes)
A hearty and traditional Swedish Thursday dinner featuring a rich yellow pea soup, often made with pork, served alongside delicate Swedish pancakes (plättar or tunna pannkakor). The tradition dates back to Catholic fasting practices before Friday.
Blübärssoppa (Swedish Blueberry Soup)
A comforting and versatile Swedish blueberry soup, perfect served warm as a restorative drink or chilled as a light dessert. Traditionally enjoyed during the Vasaloppet ski race for energy.
Kalops (Swedish Beef Stew)
A comforting and classic Swedish beef stew, deeply flavored with the warm, aromatic notes of allspice. This slow-cooked dish is perfect for a hearty meal.
Nyponsoppa (Swedish Rosehip Soup)
A classic Swedish sweet and vitamin C-rich rosehip soup, traditionally served warm or cold. This recipe enhances the natural flavor of rosehips with a touch of sweetness and a smooth texture.
đ°Dessert Dishes(14)
Blodpudding (Swedish Blood Pudding)
A traditional Swedish blood pudding, known for its slightly sweet flavor profile, often served with lingonberry jam. This recipe offers a detailed approach to creating this rustic dish.
Bondkakor (Swedish Farmer Cookies)
Classic Swedish farmer cookies, also known as Bondkakor, are simple, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delights. Perfect for 'fika' (a coffee break with a treat).
Dammsugare (Swedish Punch Rolls)
Dammsugare, literally meaning 'vacuum cleaner' in Swedish, are classic, no-bake Swedish pastries. These delightful rolls feature a rich, moist cake and butter filling, flavored with arrack liqueur (punsch), all enrobed in vibrant green marzipan and finished with chocolate-dipped ends. Traditionally made to use up leftover sponge cake, they are a beloved treat for fika (coffee break).
Kanelbullar (Swedish Cinnamon Buns)
Authentic Swedish cinnamon buns featuring a fragrant cardamom-infused dough, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a sprinkle of pearl sugar. Perfect for 'fika' (a coffee break).
Kardemummabullar (Swedish Cardamom Buns)
Intensely spiced, soft, and fragrant Swedish cardamom buns, a beloved classic for 'fika' (coffee break). This recipe focuses on achieving a rich cardamom flavor and a tender crumb.
Ostkaka
Swedish cheesecake - almond flavored. SmĂĽland specialty.
Pannkakor
Swedish thin pancakes - with jam. Dessert or meal.
Pepparkakor (Swedish Ginger Snaps)
Thin, crisp, and wonderfully spiced Swedish ginger snaps, a quintessential Christmas cookie. Perfect for decorating or enjoying plain.
PrinsesstĂĽrta (Classic)
Princess cake - an iconic Swedish layered sponge cake featuring a light genoise sponge, rich pastry cream, luscious whipped cream, all encased in a smooth dome of green marzipan, and traditionally topped with a pink marzipan rose.
PrinsesstĂĽrta (Princess Cake)
A classic Swedish celebration cake, PrinsesstĂĽrta features layers of light sponge cake, pastry cream, and whipped cream, all encased in a smooth dome of green marzipan. It's a visually stunning and delicious dessert perfect for birthdays and special occasions.
Raggmunk (Swedish Potato Pancakes)
Crispy, golden Swedish potato pancakes, traditionally served with fried pork and tart lingonberry jam. A comforting and satisfying classic.
Semla (Swedish Cream Buns)
A traditional Swedish Lent treat, the Semla is a sweet cardamom-spiced bun, sliced open, filled with a rich almond paste mixture, and topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Often enjoyed in a bowl of warm milk (hetvägg).
SmĂśrgĂĽstĂĽrta (Swedish Savory Sandwich Cake)
A visually stunning and delicious savory layered sandwich cake, traditionally served for celebrations. It features alternating layers of soft bread, creamy fillings, and is elaborately decorated to resemble a formal cake.
Spettekaka (Swedish Spit Cake)
A traditional, tall, and exceptionally delicate spit cake from the SkĂĽne region of Sweden, often served at celebrations. Its unique airy structure is achieved by slowly drizzling batter onto a rotating spit.
đBread Dishes(4)
KnäckebrÜd (Swedish Crispbread)
Authentic Swedish crispbread, known as KnäckebrÜd, is a thin, dry, and crunchy flatbread that has been a daily staple in Swedish households for centuries. This recipe yields a traditional, slightly nutty flavor with a satisfying crunch.
Lussekatter (Saffron Buns)
Traditional S-shaped saffron buns, often enjoyed on Saint Lucy's Day (December 13th). The vibrant yellow hue comes from saffron, and raisins are typically used for decoration.
TunnbrĂśd
Swedish TunnbrĂśd (thin bread) is a traditional soft or crispy flatbread originating from Norrland, the northern region of Sweden. It's versatile and can be enjoyed as a wrap or a side.
TunnbrĂśdsrulle
A classic Swedish street food, the TunnbrĂśdsrulle is a warm, soft flatbread wrap filled with a hot dog, creamy mashed potatoes, shrimp salad, and fresh lettuce, then rolled up for a satisfying and portable meal.
đŤSauce Dishes(2)
KĂśttbullar
Authentic Swedish meatballs (kĂśttbullar) - small, tender, flavorful spheres simmered in a rich, creamy gravy, traditionally served with tart lingonberry jam and fluffy mashed potatoes.
KĂśttbullar (Authentic Swedish Meatballs)
Authentic Swedish meatballs, characterized by their smaller size and delicate texture, are a beloved classic. This recipe stays true to tradition, featuring a blend of beef and pork, a creamy binder, and a rich, savory gravy. Served with tart lingonberry jam, they offer a perfect balance of flavors.