When it comes to traditional Swedish Christmas celebrations, a staple dish that cannot be missed is the famous Swedish Xmas ham. This succulent, flavorful dish is a must-have at every Swedish Christmas table and is often the highlight of the festive feast. The preparation of this dish is not only a culinary tradition but also a cultural one, passed down from generation to generation. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this Swedish Xmas ham recipe is one that is easy to follow and will surely impress your family and friends this holiday season.
If you want to add a touch of elegance to your holiday cookie platter, these Swedish Heirloom Cookies are a must-try. These delicate butter cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and can be easily customized with different toppings such as colored sugar, sprinkles, or chocolate drizzle. The recipe has been passed down through generations and is sure to become a family favorite.
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Swedish Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Superfine Sugar, Eggs, Vanilla
Shortbread cookies are a staple during the holiday season, and these Swedish Shortbread Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional version. Made with almond flour and cardamom, these cookies have a unique flavor and are perfect for dipping in a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. Plus, they are gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Swedish Fruitcake
Main Ingredients: Dried Figs, Dried Apricots, Raisins, Dark Rum, Orange
Forget the heavy, dense fruitcakes that often get a bad rap. This Swedish Fruitcake is light, moist, and full of fruity flavor. The secret ingredient is Swedish punsch liqueur, which gives the cake a unique and delicious taste. This is a perfect dessert to serve at your holiday gatherings or to give as a gift to friends and family.
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Swedish Hash (Pyttipanna)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Potatoes, Medium Onion, Smoked Pork, Ham
If you're looking for a hearty and comforting dish to serve on a cold winter night, look no further than Swedish Hash, also known as Pyttipanna. This dish is made with potatoes, onions, and meat, and is a great way to use up leftover ingredients. It's usually served with a fried egg on top and a side of pickled beets for a burst of tangy flavor.
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Swedish Christmas meat balls
Main Ingredients: Beef, Potato, Onion, Cream, Breadcrumbs, Egg, Water
No Swedish holiday feast is complete without a plate of mouthwatering meatballs. These Swedish Christmas Meatballs are a must-try, with a perfect blend of beef and pork, seasoned with allspice and nutmeg. They are then smothered in a rich and creamy gravy and served with lingonberry jam on the side. It's a classic dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Christmas Morning Wife Saver
Main Ingredients: Bread, Ham, Cheddar Cheese, Large Eggs, Black Pepper
This casserole dish is a perfect option for a stress-free Christmas morning breakfast. The Christmas Morning Wife Saver is made with layers of bread, ham, and cheese, with an egg mixture poured over the top. It can be prepared the night before and left in the fridge, making it easy to pop in the oven in the morning. Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a complete and delicious breakfast.
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Slice & Bake Swedish Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Ground Ginger, Ground Cinnamon
If you're short on time but still want to impress your guests with a homemade treat, these Slice & Bake Swedish Christmas Cookies are the perfect solution. The dough can be made ahead of time and kept in the freezer until ready to bake. With a hint of almond and a crunchy outer layer, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser and will have everyone asking for the recipe.
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The Classic Swedish Christmas Drink
Main Ingredients: Dark Ale, Sugar, Raisins, Ginger Root, Cloves, Cardamom
Glogg is a traditional Swedish Christmas drink that is served warm and is a must-have during the holiday season. This Classic Swedish Christmas Drink is made with red wine, brandy, raisins, and spices such as cinnamon and cardamom. It's the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter night and pairs well with all the delicious holiday dishes.
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Swedish Christmas Chocolate Praline Ischoklad
Main Ingredients: Chocolate, Coconut Oil
If you're a chocolate lover, these Swedish Christmas Chocolate Praline Ischoklad are a must-try. These chocolate bonbons are made with a combination of dark chocolate, hazelnuts, and butter, and are a popular treat during the holiday season in Sweden. They are easy to make and are a great addition to any dessert platter.
This Swedish Glogg recipe is a non-alcoholic version of the classic Christmas drink. Made with red grape juice, orange juice, and spices like cinnamon and cloves, it's a great option for those who don't drink alcohol or for kids. It's a warm and comforting drink that is perfect for sipping on while enjoying the holiday festivities.
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Swedish Style Vegan Christmas Ham (Vegansk Julskinka)
Main Ingredients: Vital Wheat Gluten, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Pink
For those who follow a vegan diet, this Swedish Style Vegan Christmas Ham is a great alternative to the traditional ham dish. Made with seitan and tofu, this "ham" is marinated in a flavorful mixture of mustard, soy sauce, maple syrup, and spices. It's then baked in the oven and served with a cranberry glaze for a festive touch.
This version of Glogg is the traditional Swedish recipe that includes red wine, brandy, and raisins. It's a warm and comforting drink that is perfect for sipping on while sitting by the fireplace or enjoying a cozy evening with friends and family. The aroma of the spices will fill your home and add to the festive atmosphere.
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Swedish Chanterelle Mushroom Pate
Main Ingredients: Butter, Garlic, Shallots, Chanterelle Mushrooms, Fresh
This flavorful and creamy Swedish Chanterelle Mushroom Pate is a great addition to any holiday appetizer spread. Made with chanterelle mushrooms, shallots, and cream cheese, it's a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests. Serve with crackers or crostini for a tasty bite.
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Hasselback Potato Gratin
Main Ingredients: Gruyere Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Heavy Cream, Garlic
This dish is a beautiful and delicious twist on the classic scalloped potatoes. The Hasselback Potato Gratin is made by slicing potatoes and stuffing them with a mixture of cream, garlic, and parmesan cheese. It's then baked to perfection, creating layers of crispy and creamy goodness. It's a great side dish to serve alongside your holiday main course.
Pizza may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Swedish cuisine, but this Swedish Pizza is a must-try. The dough is made with rye flour, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. It's then topped with a combination of smoked salmon, dill, and creme fraiche, creating a flavor profile that is sure to impress.
Cinnamon rolls are a classic Swedish treat, and this recipe for Swedish Cinnamon Rolls is simple and delicious. The dough is flavored with cardamom, giving it a unique and delicious taste. And the filling is made with a generous amount of cinnamon, butter, and sugar, creating a gooey and irresistible center. These rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household.
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Gløgg - Swedish Mulled Wine
Main Ingredients: Dry Red Wine, Spiced Rum, Honey, Cardamom Pods
A warming and flavorful drink, Gløgg is a must-have during the holiday season in Sweden. This Swedish Mulled Wine is made with red wine, brandy, and spices such as cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and star anise. It's then simmered for a few hours to allow all the flavors to blend together, creating a delicious and comforting drink.
This hearty and flavorful soup is a staple in Swedish cuisine, especially during the colder months. The Swedish Yellow Split Pea Soup is made with yellow split peas, ham, carrots, and onions, creating a thick and delicious soup that is perfect for warming you up on a chilly day. Serve with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Gingerbread Swedish Buns
Main Ingredients: Water, Active Dry Yeast, Unsalted Butter, Light Brown
This recipe for Gingerbread Swedish Buns is a twist on the classic Swedish cinnamon rolls. The dough is flavored with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, giving it a festive and delicious taste. The buns are then topped with a cream cheese frosting and make the perfect treat for a holiday brunch or dessert.
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Ellen’s Swedish Pepparkakor
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Sugar, Egg, Dark Corn Syrup, Orange
Pepparkakor are traditional Swedish cookies that are a must-have during the holiday season. This recipe for Ellen's Swedish Pepparkakor is a family favorite and is sure to become one of yours as well. These crunchy and flavorful cookies are made with a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, and are perfect for dipping in a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients for the Perfect Swedish Xmas Ham
Gather Your Supplies
Before diving into the recipe, it's essential to have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. For this Swedish Xmas ham, you will need a large pot or Dutch oven, a large roasting pan, a sharp knife, and a meat thermometer. As for the ingredients, you will need a bone-in, skin-on ham, whole cloves, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and breadcrumbs. For a flavorful twist, you can also add some spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger to your glaze.
The Process
The secret to a perfect Swedish Xmas ham is the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to infuse into the meat and create a tender, juicy texture. Begin by placing the ham in a large pot or Dutch oven and filling it with enough water to cover the ham. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for an hour. This step is crucial as it helps remove any excess salt and impurities from the ham.
Once the ham has simmered, carefully remove it from the pot and let it cool. Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the ham in a crisscross pattern, making sure not to cut too deep into the meat. Then, insert whole cloves into the intersecting lines, creating a beautiful, decorative pattern. Next, mix together brown sugar, honey, mustard, and your chosen spices to create a glaze. Brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to cover every inch.
The Finishing Touch
Place the glazed ham in a large roasting pan and bake it in the oven at 325°F for approximately 20 minutes per pound. Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F. Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Voila! Your Swedish Xmas ham is ready to be served. The combination of the sweet and savory flavors in this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You can serve it with traditional sides like boiled potatoes, pickled herring, and lingonberry sauce, or get creative and add your own twist to the meal. No matter how you serve it, this Swedish Xmas ham recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations.