Here is the best 10 foods to try in Sweden. Swedish food offers a range of dishes that highlight local flavors and traditions. From well-known favorites like meatballs and salmon to unique treats such as cured moose and Swedish herring, each dish reflects Sweden’s culinary heritage. Traditional Swedish meals feature hearty ingredients like potatoes and lingonberries, often seasoned with dill. Here are our pick for 10 Swedish dishes to try during your visit.
10 foods to try in Sweden
Meatballs (Köttbullar)
Swedish meatballs, or köttbullar, are small balls made from a mix of ground beef and pork. They’re seasoned with spices like allspice and are usually served with lingonberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a traditional dish enjoyed by families and often found in Swedish homes and restaurants.
Cured Salmon (Gravlax)
Gravlax is Swedish salmon cured with a blend of salt, sugar, and dill. The salmon is thinly sliced and served as an appetizer or part of a smörgåsbord. It’s typically accompanied by mustard sauce, crispbread, or potatoes, offering a savory and mildly sweet flavor.
Cured Moose (Älgkött)
Cured moose, or älgkött, is a delicacy from northern Sweden. The moose meat is smoked and thinly sliced, enjoyed on crispbread or as part of a charcuterie platter. It offers a smoky, robust flavor that reflects Sweden’s wilderness and hunting traditions.
Swedish Herring (Sill)
Swedish herring, known as sill, is pickled in various marinades such as mustard or vinegar. It’s a staple during Swedish celebrations and is typically served with boiled potatoes, sour cream, and chopped chives. The flavors range from tangy to savory, making it a versatile dish.
Baked Cabbage Rolls (Kåldolmar)
Kåldolmar are Swedish cabbage rolls filled with minced meat, rice, onions, and seasoned with allspice. They’re baked in a rich broth and served with lingonberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes. This dish highlights Swedish comfort food with its hearty flavors and traditional preparation.
Moose Head Stew (Älghuvudgryta)
Älghuvudgryta, or moose head stew, is a hearty dish made with moose meat, root vegetables, and onions cooked in a flavorful broth. It’s a warming winter meal that reflects Sweden’s hunting culture and love for hearty stews.
Swedish Reindeer (Renkött)
Renkött is lean meat from reindeer, commonly enjoyed in northern Sweden. It’s often used in hearty stews or served as steaks, reflecting Swedish traditions of using local game meats in cuisine.
Open Shrimp Sandwich (Räksmörgås)
Räksmörgås is an open-faced sandwich topped with shrimp mixed with mayonnaise, dill, and lemon juice. It’s served on buttered bread with lettuce and cucumber slices, offering a fresh and delicious taste of Swedish seafood.
Apple Pie (Äppelkaka)
Äppelkaka is a Swedish version of apple pie made with thinly sliced apples layered between sweet pastry dough sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. It’s baked until golden and served warm, often accompanied by vanilla sauce or whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Prinsesstårta
Princess Cake is a classic Swedish dessert known for its delicate layers of sponge cake, pastry cream, and raspberry jam, all topped with green marzipan. This iconic cake is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations in Sweden. Its vibrant green marzipan covering symbolizes the lush greenery of Sweden’s landscapes.
