15 Swedish Pickled Fish Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!

Published on: Mar 14, 2024

Swedish pickled fish, also known as "surströmming", is a traditional delicacy that has been enjoyed by generations in Sweden. This unique dish is made by fermenting herring fish in a brine solution for several months, resulting in a pungent and tangy flavor. While it may sound unappetizing to some, surströmming is a beloved part of Swedish cuisine and is often served at special occasions such as Midsummer and Christmas. In this article, we will explore the history and cultural significance of Swedish pickled fish and provide a step-by-step recipe for you to try at home.

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Gravadlax (Swedish Cured Salmon)

Main Ingredients: Dill, Kosher Salt, Sugar, Ground White Pepper, Ground

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If you're looking for a unique and delicious way to prepare salmon, try this Swedish gravadlax recipe. It involves curing the salmon with a mixture of salt, sugar, and dill, resulting in a flavorful and tender salmon that is perfect for any occasion. To make it even more special, serve it with a traditional Swedish mustard sauce.

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Swedish Pickled Herring

Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Water, Herring Fillets, White Wine

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This classic Swedish dish is a must-try for any seafood lover. The herring is pickled in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices, giving it a tangy and sweet flavor. Serve it cold as an appetizer or as part of a smörgåsbord spread.

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Swedish Pickled Herring Appetizer

Main Ingredients: Pickling Spice, Water, White Onion, Herring Fillet

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If you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious appetizer, look no further than this Swedish pickled herring dish. The pickled herring is served on top of a crispy potato pancake and topped with a dollop of sour cream and chives. It's a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

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Swedish Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Butter, White Onion, Milk, Bread, Eggs, Ground Pork

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No list of Swedish recipes would be complete without the iconic Swedish meatballs. These tender and flavorful meatballs are made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, seasoned with a blend of spices, and served with a creamy gravy on top. They are perfect for any dinner party or family meal.

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The Best Swedish Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Panko Bread Crumbs, Parsley, Ground

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Take your Swedish meatball game to the next level with this recipe. These meatballs are made with a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal, giving them an extra depth of flavor. They are then cooked in a rich and creamy sauce, making them melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

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Swedish Smörgåstårta Sandwich Cake

Main Ingredients: Round Loaf, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cream Cheese, Garlic

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This unique and impressive dish is a true staple in Swedish cuisine. It consists of layers of bread, meat, cheese, and vegetables, all topped with a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce. It's perfect for a special occasion or as a centerpiece for a smörgåsbord spread.

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Swedish Meatballs Sauce

Main Ingredients: Beef Broth, Cream Cheese, Heavy Cream, Ground Nutmeg

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The creamy and flavorful sauce that accompanies Swedish meatballs is a key component of the dish. This sauce is made with a blend of beef broth, heavy cream, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, resulting in a rich and savory gravy that pairs perfectly with the meatballs.

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SWEDISH SUSHI

Main Ingredients: Whole Wheat Sourdough Bread, Butter, Bay Leaves

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Put a unique twist on traditional sushi by trying this Swedish-inspired recipe. Instead of using raw fish, this sushi is made with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber, all rolled up in nori sheets and served with a tangy mustard sauce. It's a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

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Swedish Lax Pudding

Main Ingredients: Butter, Red Skinned Potatoes, Sliced Salmon, Salt

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This traditional Swedish dish is a cross between a casserole and a quiche. It's made with layers of potatoes, smoked salmon, and eggs, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

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Swedish Anchovy & Onion Pie

Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Cold Water, Onions

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This savory and flavorful pie is a staple in Swedish cuisine. It's made with a flaky pie crust, filled with a mixture of anchovies, onions, and cream, and then baked to perfection. It's a perfect dish for a cozy night in or for a special occasion.

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Delicious Swedish Meatballs Using Frozen Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Beef Broth, Sour

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If you don't have the time to make meatballs from scratch, this recipe is perfect for you. Using frozen meatballs, you can still create a delicious and authentic Swedish meatball dish. Just cook the meatballs according to the package instructions and then top them with a homemade creamy sauce.

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Swedish Pancakes

Main Ingredients: Eggs, Milk, Flour, Sugar, Salt, Melted Butter, Butter

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For a delicious and simple breakfast option, try these Swedish pancakes. They are thinner and crispier than traditional American pancakes and are usually served with lingonberry jam and whipped cream. They are a perfect way to start your day.

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Smorgastarta (Swedish Sandwich Cake)

Main Ingredients: Round Loaf, Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, Ground White

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This Swedish sandwich cake is a true showstopper. It's made with layers of bread, smoked salmon, shrimp, and vegetables, all topped with a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce. It's perfect for a special occasion or as part of a smörgåsbord spread.

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Authentic Swedish Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Minced Onion, Plain

Authentic Swedish Meatballs from Stockholm, Sweden | Authentic swedish ...

If you want to make truly authentic Swedish meatballs, this recipe is for you. The meatballs are made with a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal, seasoned with traditional Swedish spices, and cooked in a rich and creamy sauce. Serve with lingonberry jam for a true taste of Sweden.

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Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Panko, Whole Milk, Large Egg

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If you're short on time, try making Swedish meatballs in the Instant Pot. With this recipe, the meatballs and sauce are cooked together in the Instant Pot, resulting in a quick and easy meal that still has all the delicious flavors of traditional Swedish meatballs.

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Gravlax with Swedish Mustard Sauce

Main Ingredients: Salt, Sugar, Orange Zest, White Pepper, Fennel, Salmon

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This Scandinavian-inspired dish is a true treat for seafood lovers. Gravlax is cured salmon that is typically served with a sweet and tangy mustard sauce. It's perfect for a special occasion or as part of a smörgåsbord spread.

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Laxpudding - Swedish baked salmon pudding

Main Ingredients: Waxy Potatoes, Butter, Brown Onions, Salt, White

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This unique and flavorful dish is a true staple in Swedish cuisine. It's made with layers of potatoes, salmon, and eggs, all baked together in a creamy and savory sauce. It's a perfect comfort food for any time of the year.

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A Swedish Sandwich Cake - “Smorgastarta”!

Main Ingredients: Bread, Smoked Salmon, Cooked Shrimp, English Cucumber

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For a unique and impressive dish, try making a Swedish sandwich cake. It's made with layers of bread, smoked salmon, shrimp, and vegetables, all topped with a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce. It's perfect for a special occasion or as part of a smörgåsbord spread.

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Cranberry Apple Cinnamon Swedish Star

Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Sugar, Salt, Milk, Dry Active Yeast, Egg

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This festive and flavorful dessert is perfect for the holiday season. It's made with a buttery and flaky pastry, filled with a sweet and tangy cranberry apple filling, and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. It's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

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Crockpot Cranberry Jalapeño Swedish Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Eggs, Heavy Whipping Cream, Sea Salt, Ground Black

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For an easy and delicious appetizer, try these crockpot Swedish meatballs. Made with frozen meatballs, cranberry sauce, and jalapeño jelly, they have a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. They are perfect for any party or gathering.

The History of Swedish Pickled Fish

Origins of Surströmming

The tradition of pickling fish in Sweden dates back to at least the 16th century, when preserving food was crucial for survival during harsh winters. Herring, a common fish found in the Baltic Sea, was often pickled in barrels with a salt and water solution. Over time, this method evolved into fermenting the fish with a brine solution, resulting in a more pungent and flavorful product.

Cultural Significance

In Sweden, surströmming is more than just a food – it is a cultural icon. The annual "premiere" of the new batch of pickled fish in August is a highly anticipated event, with many Swedes gathering with family and friends to open and taste their first can of the season. Surströmming is also a popular dish at celebrations and festivals, often accompanied by traditional sides such as crispbread, potatoes, and cheese.

How to Make Swedish Pickled Fish

Ingredients:

- Fresh herring fish - Salt - Water - Sugar - Vinegar - Spices (such as bay leaves, allspice, and dill) - Airtight containers or jars for fermenting

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Start by cleaning and gutting the fresh herring fish. Some people prefer to fillet the fish, while others leave them whole. 2. In a large bowl, mix together equal parts salt and water to create a brine solution. Submerge the fish in the brine and let it sit for 12-24 hours. 3. After brining, rinse the fish and pat dry with paper towels. 4. Place the fish in a clean container or jar, layering them with spices of your choice. 5. In a separate bowl, mix together vinegar, water, and sugar to create a pickling solution. Pour the solution over the fish, making sure they are fully submerged. 6. Seal the container or jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 2-6 months. 7. Once the fish has fermented, it can be served as a topping on bread or crackers, or as a main dish with traditional sides. In conclusion, Swedish pickled fish may not be for everyone, but for those who have acquired a taste for it, it is a beloved and integral part of Swedish culture. Whether you decide to try it at a local restaurant or make it at home, surströmming is a unique and flavorful dish that is worth experiencing. So, gather some friends and family, open a can of pickled fish, and join in on the Swedish tradition.