Welcome to Sweden

Sweden is a land rich in history and culture whose people are generally peaceful by nature. Since Sweden is located so far north in Europe, it has a very cold climate. This creates some issues with storing food.

There aren’t very many fresh vegetables in Sweden, so the cuisine focuses on meat and fish. Herring is the country’s most popular fish, and it can be dried to save over the long winter. Swedish cuisine is also heavier and rich in fat since the animals and fish need this extra fat to protect them during the cold winter.

A smorgasbord is a buffet-style meal. Dishes are placed on a table, “pot-luck” style. Everyone comes to the table and takes what they want to eat. The Christmas smorgasbord is called Julbord or “Christmas table.” Here are some things you’ll find at a Julbord:

• Swedish meatballs
• Christmas ham (Julskinka)
• Pickled herring
• Mulled wine (Glögg)
• Lussekatter—for St. Lucia’s day (December 13), saffron bread representing Lucia’s cat
• Ostkaka (cheesecake)—curdled milk pressed together and baked

So try one of these delicious recipes that originated in Sweden. Don't forget to ask an adult for help!

• Swedish Pancake Torta
• Swedish Meatballs