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Home » Nordic Life

A New Nordic Kitchen

Published: Jan 14, 2022 by Kristi · This post may contain affiliate links.

Nordic cuisine has undergone a transformation over the past 20 years. The rise of the New Nordic Cuisine movement has brought attention to the ingredients native to this northern climate and has changed the way the people perceive Scandinavian food as a whole.

Once only seen as meatballs, pickled herring and lingonberry jam, Nordic cuisine is now viewed as a diverse and exciting celebration of native vegetables, fruits, whole grains, locally-sourced meat, wild game and fish.

Beets on a white wooden surface.

The Origins of the New Nordic Kitchen Manifesto

This happened largely thanks to the efforts two Danish men, Claus Meyer and Jan Krag Jacobsen who decided it was time to overhaul what they saw as an outdated perception of Nordic cuisine. In 2004, Meyer and Jacobsen assembled a group of Scandinavian chefs with the intent of creating a broad framework that would both preserve and advance the unique food culture of the Nordic region.

"As Nordic chefs," they stated, "we find that the time has now come for us to create a New Nordic Kitchen, which in virtue of its good taste and special character compares favorable with the standard of the greatest kitchens of the world." And thus, the New Nordic Kitchen Manifesto was born. Rather than outline specific techniques or ingredients, the manifesto contains 10 statements of intent for the New Nordic Kitchen envisioned by this ambitious group of chefs:

The Aims of the New Nordic Kitchen

To express the purity, freshness, simplicity and ethics we wish to associate to our region.

To reflect the changes of the seasons in the meals we make.

To base our cooking on ingredients and produce whose characteristics are particularly in our climates, landscapes and waters.

To combine the demand for good taste with modern knowledge of health and well-being.

To promote Nordic products and the variety of Nordic producers - and to spread the word about their underlying cultures.

To promote animal welfare and a sound production process in our seas, on our farmland and in the wild.

To develop potentially new applications of traditional Nordic food products.

To combine the best in Nordic cookery and culinary traditions with impulses from abroad.

To combine local self-sufficiency with regional sharing of high-quality products.

To join forces with consumer representatives, other cooking craftsmen, agriculture, fishing, food retail and wholesale industries, researchers, teachers, politicians and authorities on this project for the benefit and advantage of everyone in the Nordic countries.

The Nordic Diet as a Healthy Alternative

This manifesto not only elevated the restaurant landscape in Scandinavia (think Noma in Denmark or Fäviken in Sweden), it also brought international attention to the fact that a diet rich in Nordic ingredients could be good for you.  For many years, the Mediterranean diet has received countless accolades for its health benefits.  But for the many people who don’t live near the Mediterranean, following a diet that is largely based on the local produce of that particular growing region is unrealistic and not an environmentally sound practice.  The so-called Nordic diet provides a cold climate alternative:  Still rich in plant-based foods, whole grains and fatty fish, but with more focus on the nutrient dense root vegetables that grow well in the north.

The Nordic diet has influenced home cooks in the region by articulating a modern, healthful approach to cooking with native ingredients. It also reflects a shift in values when it comes to food that is evident worldwide: A growing commitment to cooking and eating sustainably, seasonally and in an environmentally-conscious manner.

Foods Included in the Nordic Diet

So what specific foods are included in the Nordic diet? I've put together a handy list which includes links to recipes here on the blog that fit into each category:

Root Vegetables and Tubers

 Beets, carrots, celery root, parsnips, rutabaga, turnips and potatoes are among the common varieties of root vegetables and tubers grown in the northern regions.  Small new potatoes are particularly prized during the summer months.

Roasted Beet Salad with Arugula, Rye and Creamy Herbed Skyr Sauce
This impressive and hearty salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures: Earthy beets, spicy arugula, crisp shallots and pop-in-your-mouth rye berries all tossed in a honey mustard vinaigrette. And alongside there's a Creamy Herbed Skyr Sauce to perfectly compliment the components and bring them all together.
Check out this recipe
Roasted beet salad on a platter next to a napkin.
Spicy Quick Pickled Beets
Scandinavian style quick pickled roasted beets with a spicy kick! The perfect compliment for all manner of Nordic inspired dishes.
Check out this recipe
Pickled beets in a jar next to spices and beets.
Beet and Celery Root Cake Smørrebrød with Herbed Skyr Sauce
A hearty open face sandwich with crispy beet and celery root cakes and a luxurious dollop of Herbed Skyr Sauce.
Check out this recipe
An open sandwich with beet and celery root cakes and creamy sauce on a plate
Healthy Homemade Beet Juice (in the blender)
This delicious, jewel-toned beet juice is packed with nutrients (including fiber) and is easy to make at home, no juicer required.
Check out this recipe
Close up of a glass of beet juice.
Roasted Beet Hummus
A delicious, creamy and visually stunning homemade hummus with just a hint of earthy sweetness thanks to the addition of a roasted beet.  Perfect for dipping!
Check out this recipe
A bowl of beet hummus next to flatbread and cucumbers
Roasted Beet Hummus Smørrebrød with Avocado and Pickled Onions
A vibrantly stunning (and vegan) Nordic open sandwich with roasted beet hummus, creamy avocado and piquant pickled onions.  
Check out this recipe
An open sandwich with beet hummus, avocado slices and pickled onions on a plate with a fork
Crispy Sweet Potato Pancakes with Lingonberries and Bacon
A delicious variation of classic Scandinavian potato pancakes featuring sweet potatoes and fresh thyme.  Delicious with lingonberries and bacon!
Check out this recipe
Crispy Sweet Potato Pancakes with Lingonberry Preserves and Bacon on a plate
New Potato Smørrebrød with Garlic Aïoli and Crispy Shallots
An easy recipe for a classic Scandinavian open sandwich featuring sliced new potatoes, garlicky mayo and irresistable crispy fried shallots.
Check out this recipe
An open sandwich with lettuce, potato slices, crispy shallots and creamy sauce on a plate
Hasselback Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Sage Butter
Yukon Gold Potatoes sliced thin and topped with caramelized onions and sage butter. A delicious update to a Swedish classic!
Check out this recipe
Hasselback potatoes topped with herbs and onions on a marble surface
Herbed Potato Salad with Capers and Pickled Golden Beets (No Mayo)
Tender potato slices tossed in a mustardy vinaigrette with loads of fresh herbs, capers, shallots and pickled golden beets.
Check out this recipe
Close up of Herbed Potato Salad with Capers and Pickled Golden Beets.
Creamy Herbed Potato Salad with Buttermilk Dressing
An easy and delicious potato salad featuring fresh summer herbs and a creamy buttermilk dressing.
Check out this recipe
Creamy Herbed Potato Salad in a bowl next to a spoon and dill sprigs.

Cruciferous Vegetables and Hearty Greens

You will also find Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli in the Nordic region. Cabbage is plentiful as are dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach and chard.

Nordic Red Cabbage Slaw with Carrots and Beets
This zesty, colorful slaw is much more interesting than the average coleslaw.....shredded red cabbage, carrots and raw beets are tossed with chopped red onion, dill and a creamy skyr or Greek yogurt-based dressing to create a Nordic-inspired slaw you are going to love!
Check out this recipe
Red cabbage slaw in a bowl with a spoon on a wooden surface.
Kale Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Pecans
A delicious fresh salad for winter with crispy kale, sweet roasted butternut squash and red onions and toasty pecans.  It makes a tasty leafy green side dish or a hearty main coarse salad.
Check out this recipe
Kale salad with roasted butternut squash and pecans on a plate
Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup
An easy and delicious roasted cauliflower soup.  Creamy, full of flavor and dairy-free!
Check out this recipe
A close up of a bowl of cauliflower soup with croutons, chives and olive oil
Roasted Broccoli Smørrebrød with Whipped Ricotta
A delicious open sandwich featuring creamy whipped ricotta cheese, tender roasted broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes and briny olives.  
Check out this recipe
An open sandwich with ricotta cheese, broccoli and sun-dried tomatoes on a plate

Mushrooms

Scandinavians are avid foragers. From berries to mushrooms to wild greens, foraging is a very popular activity in the Nordic countries. This enduring custom also finds its way into the recipes of the region, many of which call for wild edibles, including mushrooms, as ingredients.

Mushroom Gratin
A delicious and easy gratin with creamy, thyme-infused mushrooms covered with crispy, buttery bread crumbs and baked until golden brown and bubbly.
Check out this recipe
Closeup of a spoonful of Mushroom Gratin.
Caramelized Onion, Mushroom and Barley Soup
A soul-warming vegetarian soup featuring sweet caramelized onions, savory mushrooms and hearty pearl barley. Perfect for cold winter days!
Check out this recipe
Close up of a bowl of mushroom and barley soup next to a spoon.
Balsamic-Glazed Mushroom Smørrebrød with White Bean Purée
A delicious (and vegan!) open sandwich featuring a garlic and rosemary white bean purėe, balsamic-glazed mushrooms and tender arugula piled high on top of toasted sourdough bread.
Check out this recipe
A close up of an open sandwich with mushrooms and lettuce
Creamy Barley Risotto with Roasted Mushrooms and Crispy Kale
A creamy risotto made with pearl barley instead of rice.  Topped with hearty roasted mushrooms and crispy, garlicky kale, this dish makes a delicious and comforting vegetarian winter supper.
Check out this recipe
Barley risotto, roasted mushrooms and kale on a plate

Other Seasonal Vegetables

Despite the short growing season in the Nordic region, the summer months bring a bounty of fresh seasonal vegetables to the table, including tender greens, spinach, asparagus, nettles, cucumbers and zucchini.

Quick Swedish Pickled Cucumbers
An easy recipe for Scandinavian-style fresh pickled cucumbers with dill.  
Check out this recipe
Quick Swedish Pickled Cucumbers in a jar next to peppercorns and fresh dill sprigs.
Lemon Cucumber Salad with Dill
A deliciously simple summer salad with crisp cucumbers and a creamy lemon dill vinaigrette.
Check out this recipe
Close up of lemon cucumber salad (featured image).
Chilled Cucumber Soup with Avocado and Dill
Refreshing cucumber, vibrant peppers, fragrant dill and creamy avocado come together in this vegetarian no-cook soup. A delicious, cooling elixir for hot days!
Check out this recipe
Close up of chilled cucumber soup with chopped tomatoes, croutons and dill on top.
Curried Zucchini Soup (Dairy-free)
A deliciously simple creamy zucchini soup with just a hint of curry powder.  Perfect for using up those plentiful garden zucchini!
Check out this recipe
A bowl of zucchini soup topped with sliced almonds and a spoon and lemon wedge
Grilled Summer Squash Salad with Rye Berries and Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette
A hearty grilled vegetable salad with zucchini, summer squash, red onions and rye berries.
Check out this recipe
A plate of grilled summer squash salad topped with basil leaves
Summer Harvest Barley Salad with Corn, Zucchini and Tomatoes
A delicious barley salad featuring tender zucchini, sweet corn, garden fresh tomatoes and briny olives tossed with hearty barley grains, a zippy vinaigrette and a handful of chopped basil.  Perfect for the height of summer!
Check out this recipe
A bowl of barley salad with corn, zucchini and tomatoes
Barley Salad with Asparagus, Red Pepper and Spinach
A delicious and hearty spring salad with sautéed asparagus, red pepper, spinach and pearl barley
Check out this recipe
Spinach, asparagus and red pepper salad on a plate.
Creamy Asparagus, Leek and Pea Soup
A simple, creamy vegetable soup to celebrate the spring season.
Check out this recipe
Two bowls of Creamy Asparagus, Leek and Pea Soup next to asparagus spears and a spoon.
Caramelized Leek and Snap Pea Salad Smørrebrød
A delicious and hearty spring open sandwich topped with creamy ricotta, caramelized leeks and a lemony snap pea salad.
Check out this recipe
Open sandwiches topped with snap peas and leeks on a wooden cutting board next to a knife and fork
Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup
An easy and delicious roasted vegetable soup with tomatoes, red bell peppers and aromatics.  Vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free!
Check out this recipe
Two bowls of tomato red pepper soup topped with basil.
Marinated Garden Tomatoes
Looking for an easy and fresh way to use up those summer tomatoes? These Marinated Garden Tomatoes are the answer! Thick slices of perfectly ripe tomatoes are gently tossed in a simple vinaigrette with chopped fresh parsley. It's summertime perfection!
Check out this recipe
Marinated Garden Tomatoes on a platter.
Zucchini Barley Cakes with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Ricotta
Delicious and hearty cakes made with pearl barley, zucchini and fresh herbs served alongside roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh ricotta cheese.  A delicious late summer vegetarian dinner!
Check out this recipe
Zucchini barley cakes, roasted cherry tomatoes and ricotta cheese on a a plate
Easy Garden Tomato Smørrebrød
Three easy ideas for delicious Nordic open sandwiches starring the garden fresh tomato!
Check out this recipe
Open sandwiches with tomatoes and egg on a marble plate
Rustic Tomato Tart with Rye Crust
An easy rustic tomato tart with a rye crust.  A stunning way to use up those end-of-summer tomatoes!
Check out this recipe
A close up of a rustic tomato tart

Whole Grains

The Nordic region is known for its rye consumption, particularly in the form of dark rye bread, but barley, spelt and oats are commonly enjoyed as well.  Not only are whole grains ground into flour and baked into delicious breads, they are also enjoyed as creamy breakfast porridges or cooked simply and served in salads or hearty grain-based bowls.

Norwegian Brown Bread with Oats and Rye
A light and nutritious multigrain bread bursting with the goodness of oats, barley, rye and whole wheat.
Check out this recipe
Sliced Norwegian Brown Bread on a wooden cutting board.
Swedish Limpa Bread
Limpa is a classic Swedish rye bread with a tender crumb and a hint of fragrant orange and anise seed. While some rye breads can be tricky to work with, this recipe is incredibly simple. If you are new to baking rye bread at home, this Swedish Limpa is the perfect place to start.
Check out this recipe
Slices of Swedish Limpa Bread
Easy Overnight Danish Rye Bread (Rugbrød)
An easy and foolproof recipe for traditional Danish rye bread known as rugbrød. Made with instant yeast (NO sourdough starter required), rye flour, whole grains and a variety of wholesome seeds, this dense rye bread is as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for smørrebrød, the famous Nordic open sandwiches served in Denmark!
Check out this recipe
Sliced rye bread on a marble surface.
Rustic Butternut Squash Galette with Rye Crust
A deliciously rustic savory tart made with a rye pastry crust and filled with roasted butternut squash and caramelized onions.
Check out this recipe
Slice of Butternut Squash Galette on a white plate next to a fork and glass of wine.
Creamy Barley Breakfast Porridge
Creamy pearl barley porridge flavored with cinnamon, vanilla and brown sugar. A delicious and nutritious alternative to your morning bowl of oatmeal!
Check out this recipe
Close up of a bowl of Creamy Barley Breakfast Porridge with a spoon.
Simple Oatmeal with Brown Sugar and Cream
Simple, delicious and creamy oatmeal served with brown sugar and a drizzle of cream.  Perfect for busy weekday breakfasts!
Check out this recipe
Oatmeal in a bowl with a spoon on a napkin
Rye and Oat Muesli with Hazelnuts and Dried Cherries
A delicious and nourishing blend of toasted old-fashioned rolled oats, rye flakes, wheat bran, hazelnuts, cardamom and dried cherries.
Check out this recipe
Close up of Rye and Oat Muesli with Dried Cherries and Hazelnuts.
Easy Swedish Crispbread (Knäckebröd)
A simple recipe for Swedish Crispbread (Knäckebröd) featuring dark rye flour and oats.  A delicious and nutritious accompaniment to snacks and meals at any time of day!
Check out this recipe
Close up of Easy Swedish Crispbread (Knäckebröd) on a plate.
Warm Barley Salad with Fresh Garden Herbs
A versatile and delicious warm pearl barley salad with mustard, lemon juice and fresh garden herbs.
Check out this recipe
Barley salad with fresh herbs in a bowl with a spoon
Cozy Slow Cooker Chicken and Barley Soup
A delicious and easy chicken and barley soup recipe designed for the slow cooker. Nourishing and comforting, this chicken soup is the perfect cozy meal for a cold winter's night.
Check out this recipe
Chicken soup in a crockpot with two mugs of soup, spoons and a wooden ladle
Rye Berry Salad with Chickpeas, Roasted Red Peppers and Arugula
A bright and zesty salad featuring rye berries, chickpeas, roasted red peppers, capers and arugula tossed in a zippy vinaigrette. A delicious and nutritious make ahead dish!
Check out this recipe
Rye berry salad with roasted peppers and arugula on a platter
Homemade Cardamom Granola with Almonds
Easy and delicious homemade granola recipe featuring oats, cardamom and sliced almonds.
Check out this recipe
Overhead view of two bowls of granola, milk, berries and a spoon.
Baked Nordic Oat and Rye Porridge
A hearty and delicious baked oat and rye porridge with wild blue berries and toasted almonds.
Check out this recipe
Baked oat and rye porridge with blueberries and almonds in a pan
Lemon Blueberry Crumble Bars
Delicious, buttery crumble bars with a lemon blueberry filling.
Check out this recipe
Close up of a stack of Lemon Blueberry Crumble Bars.
Strawberry Rhubarb Barley Scones
A tender, delicate scone with a layer of strawberry rhubarb compote in the center.
Check out this recipe
Strawberry rhubarb scones on a cooling rack

Fish and seafood

Surrounded by the sea and freshwater lakes, Scandinavians enjoy a diet rich in local seafood.  Salmon, cod, herring, shrimp and mackerel are among the most commonly available choices.

Smoked Salmon and Fennel Salad Smørrebrød
A delicious Nordic open sandwich featuring store bought gravlax and a crisp fennel salad.
Check out this recipe
Open sandwiches topped with lettuce, salmon and fennel on a marble plate
Roasted Salmon Smørrebrød with Creamy Mustard Dill Sauce and Pickled Beets
Dense rye bread topped with watercress, roasted salmon, creamy mustard dill sauce and pickled beets
Check out this recipe
Salmon with mustard sauce, pickled beets and salad on a plate
Roasted Salmon Salad with Capers and Parsley
A deliciously simple warm salad with the bold flavors of capers and parsley and silky, rich salmon.
Check out this recipe
Salmon salad on a plate with crispbread next to a fork
Simple Roasted Salmon with Cucumber-Radish Relish
An easy roasted salmon supper with a zesty, fresh relish featuring cucumbers, radishes, scallions and prepared horseradish.
Check out this recipe
Salmon and cucumber radish relish on a plate with a fork, wine glass and napkin
Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon with Creamy Horseradish Sauce
This plank salmon is so delicious and so easy to make!
Check out this recipe
Salmon filets on a cedar plank with a creamy sauce
Spiced Salmon Skewers with Lemon
Easy and elegant grilled salmon skewers showered with a mixture of fresh oregano, sesame seeds, cumin and red pepper flakes.
Check out this recipe
Salmon skewers on a plate with fresh herbs and lemon wedges
Potato and Pickled Herring Bites with Remoulade
An easy and delicious Scandinavian-inspired appetizer with sliced potatoes, curry remoulade sauce, pickled herring and fresh dill.  A simply elegant beginning to a festive evening!
Check out this recipe
A close up of pickled herring bites topped with dill
Traditional Toast Skagen (Swedish Shrimp Toasts)
An easy and elegant Swedish appetizer...crispy, buttery toast topped with creamy shrimp salad and caviar. A perfect way to begin a memorable evening!
Check out this recipe
Close up of Toast Skagen topped with caviar.

Wild game  

Scandinavians are more likely to enjoy reindeer, moose, elk, venison and game birds on occasion than we are here in the United States. Conventionally raised meat and poultry are eaten in moderation.

Berries and Other Seasonal Fruit

Antioxidant-rich blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and raspberries grow seasonally in the north, as do the more exotic cloudberries and lingonberries.  Apples and pears are readily available in the fall, and rhubarb is plentiful in the spring.

No Cook Lingonberry Sauce (Stirred Lingonberries)
A simple but essential Scandinavian condiment made with lingonberries and sugar.  Delicious on nearly everything!
Check out this recipe
Close up of lingonberry sauce on a spoon.
Lingonberry Vinaigrette
A tangy and delicious everyday vinaigrette made with lingonberry preserves.
Check out this recipe
A close up of a jar of vinaigrette with a spoon
Lingonberry Skyr Mousse
A light and airy lingonberry mousse made with Icelandic yogurt (skyr) and whipped cream.  A delicious and impressive make-ahead dessert for easy entertaining this holiday season!
Check out this recipe
Lingonberry skyr mousse with lingonberries and a spoon
Norwegian Cloudberry Cream (Multekrem)
A deliciously decadent mix of whipped cream, sour cream, vanilla and cloudberry preserves.
Check out this recipe
Scandinavian Almond Tart filled with Cloudberry Cream.
Nordic Wildberry Frozen Skyr
A delicious and creamy homemade frozen yogurt featuring a mix of blackberries, blueberries and raspberries.  Perfect for hot summer days!
Check out this recipe
Frozen berry skyr yogurt in a bowl with fresh berries and a spoon
Nordic WIld Berry Almond Smoothie
A delicious and antioxidant rich vegan smoothie chock full of wild blueberries and nutritious lingonberries. A perfectly Nordic start to the day!
Check out this recipe
A close up of a berry smoothie topped with blueberries and lingonberries
Roasted Strawberry Rhubarb Compote
A simple roasted fruit compote featuring strawberries and rhubarb. Perfect on oatmeal, toast, ice cream....just about anything!
Check out this recipe
Jar of Roasted Strawberry Rhubarb Compote with a spoon next to strawberries.
Rustic Strawberry Rhubarb Rye Galette
An easy free-form tart with rye crust and a delicious strawberry rhubarb filling.
Check out this recipe
A slice of strawberry rhubarb galette on a plate with a fork
Finnish Strawberry Almond Tart
An easy summer tart filled with vanilla scented strawberries and surrounded by tender almond dough and sliced almonds.
Check out this recipe
A slice of strawberry almond tart on a plate with a fork, napkin and cup of coffee
Blueberry Cardamom Compote
A simple and delicious fruit compote made with frozen blueberries, ground cardamom and pure maple syrup or honey.  The perfect way to perk up your breakfast, afternoon snack or late night bowl of ice cream!
Check out this recipe
Close up of a spoonful of blueberry cardamom compote.
Blueberry Creme Fraiche Tart with Rye
A deliciously simple Finnish tart filled with fresh blueberries and an easy creme fraiche filling.  An elegant and effortless late summer dessert or afternoon fika treat!
Check out this recipe
A slice of blueberry tart on a plate with a napkin and fork
Easy Spiced Pear Compote
This delicious Spiced Pear Compote is flavored with cardamom, vanilla and fresh ginger and naturally sweetened with just a touch of honey. It makes a perfect topping for oatmeal, pancakes, ice cream, toast....the options are endless!
Check out this recipe
Spiced Pear Compote in a jar with a spoon.
Gingerbread Cobbler with Apples and Pears
A cozy fall cobbler featuring a filling of spiced apples and pears and topped with gingerbread biscuits.
Check out this recipe
Gingerbread cobbler with apples and pears in a baking dish
Spiced Pear Cake
A deliciously moist and simple bundt cake featuring homemade pear compote and warm spices.  The perfect afternoon treat with a cup of coffee!
Check out this recipe
Spiced Pear Cake on a white plate next to a pear and spices.
Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka)
An easy and moist cake baked with a hint of cardamom and topped with caramelized apples.  The perfect fall fika treat!
Check out this recipe
Close up of a slice of Swedish Apple Cake.
Easy Baked Apple Donuts
A deliciously moist apple donut made with homemade apple compote, brushed with melted butter and rolled in a sugar and spice mixture.  The perfect fall treat!
Check out this recipe
Close up of stack of three apple donuts next to a cup of coffee and apples
Salted Caramel Apple Oat Porridge
Creamy steel cut oats topped with crisp apple, toasted almonds and homemade salted caramel sauce.
Check out this recipe
Oatmeal in bowl topped with apple, sliced almonds and caramel sauce with a spoon

Rapeseed (Canola) Oil

This is one area in which the Nordic diet differs from the Mediterranean diet which focuses solely on olive oil.  Rich in Omega 3’s and neutral in flavor, canola oil is a popular choice in Scandinavia.

Cultured Dairy Products  

Filmjölk (a pourable yogurt like kefir) and skyr (Icelandic yogurt) are a couple of examples of fermented dairy products available in Scandinavia.  They are typically enjoyed with porridge, granola or muesli at breakfast.

Creamy Herbed Skyr Sauce
A creamy, garlicky, herbed yogurt sauce that goes nicely with just about everything.
Check out this recipe
A bowl with herbed yogurt sauce next to fresh dill sprigs and a napkin.
Brown Sugar Skyr Tart
A simply delicious tart made with an almond crust and a creamy, cheesecake-like skyr and brown sugar filling.
Check out this recipe
A slice of brown sugar skyr tart on a plate with a fork, napkin and a cup of coffee
Summer Skyr Tart with Fresh Berries
A fresh, easy and gorgeous summer berry tart with a skyr and cream cheese filling.
Check out this recipe
A skyr tart with fresh berries on a wooden surface
Whipped Vanilla Skyr Cream
A luxurious alternative to whipped cream made with skyr (Icelandic yogurt), cream, sugar and vanilla. The perfect topping for just about anything!
Check out this recipe
Whipped Vanilla Cream Skyr in a bowl next to strawberries.

Pickled foods  

Pickling is a popular way to prolong the shelf-life of seasonal vegetables and is quite popular in this region that has a relatively short growing season.  

Spicy Quick Pickled Beets
Scandinavian style quick pickled roasted beets with a spicy kick! The perfect compliment for all manner of Nordic inspired dishes.
Check out this recipe
Pickled beets in a jar next to spices and beets.
Pickled Beet Salad
A fresh and easy pickled beet salad with lemon zest, capers and Italian parsley that makes a great compliment to grilled meats and legumes, lentils in particular.
Check out this recipe
Pickled Beet Salad with Capers, Lemon Zest and Parsley on a platter.
Quick Swedish Pickled Cucumbers
An easy recipe for Scandinavian-style fresh pickled cucumbers with dill.  
Check out this recipe
Quick Swedish Pickled Cucumbers in a jar next to peppercorns and fresh dill sprigs.
Nordic Avocado Toast with Pickled Beets and Egg
A delicious combination of creamy avocado, sliced hard-boiled egg and spicy pickled beets on top of rye bread.  The perfect savory Nordic breakfast for busy days!
Check out this recipe
Toast with sliced egg, avocado and pickled beets on a plate

Legumes  

Dried whole yellow peas and split peas are the core ingredient in many of the hearty soups popular in the Nordic region, but lentils, beans and chickpeas are also commonly consumed in the modern Scandinavian home kitchen.

Chickpea Salad Smørrebrød
A creamy, herby chickpea salad with crisp celery and briny capers.  Perfect for piling high on rye bread with fresh lettuce greens.
Check out this recipe
Open sandwiches with chickpea salad, radishes and lettuce on a plate
Easy Vegetarian Split Pea Soup with Barley
A soul-warming and delicious vegetarian split pea soup featuring smoked paprika and hearty pearl barley.
Check out this recipe
Two bowls of split pea soup next to a spoon and napkin.
Creamy Split Pea Hummus
An easy recipe for a super creamy hummus made with split peas (green OR yellow)!
Check out this recipe
Split Pea Hummus drizzled with olive oil next to crackers, cucumber and radishes.
Hearty Lentil Soup with Roasted Butternut Squash, Kale and Bacon
A nourishing and soul warming lentil soup with roasted butternut squash, kale and bacon.  Perfect for chilly fall evenings!
Check out this recipe
Close up of a bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup with Roasted Butternut Squash, Kale and Bacon next to a spoon and napkin
Danish Burgers with Caramelized Onions and Lentil Salad (Hakkebøf)
A classic Danish burger smothered in caramelized onions and served alongside an earthy, herby lentil salad.  
Check out this recipe
A hamburger, pickled beets and lentil salad on a plate next to a fork, knife, napkin and glass of beer
Herbed White Bean and Sausage Soup with Swiss Chard
An easy and delicious soup filled with nourishing vegetables, hearty white beans and browned Italian sausage.  Perfect for a cozy winter's supper!
Check out this recipe
A bowl of white bean and sausage soup with Swiss chard with a spoon and crispbread

Fresh herbs and exotic spices

 Dill is a well-known staple of Nordic cuisine, but you will find other fresh herbs as well:  Thyme, tarragon, parsley, rosemary and marjoram, just to name a few.  Scandinavian cooking and baking also boasts its share of exotic spices, most notably cardamom, cinnamon and curry powders of all kinds.  It is believed that the Vikings brought these unusual spices north after encountering them on their eastern travels.

St. Lucia Buns (Lussekatter)
A soft, slightly sweet Scandinavian saffron bun that is traditionally served on St. Lucia Day (December 13th).
Check out this recipe
St. Lucia Buns on a marble plate.
Swedish Glögg
An easy and delicious recipe for classic Swedish mulled wine.  It will keep you warm and cozy all winter long.
Check out this recipe
A cup of mulled wine next to evergreen branches, spices and an orange.
Homemade Cardamom Ice Cream
A deliciously creamy Scandinavian-inspired homemade ice cream flavored with cardamom and vanilla.
Check out this recipe
Cardamom Ice Cream in a white dish on a wooden surface.
Swedish Cardamom Cake (Kardemummakaka)
A simple, most bundt cake bursting with cardamom flavor.
Check out this recipe
Slice of bundt cake on a plate with a fork.
Cardamom Peach Cobbler
A Scandinavian-inspired peach cobbler with just a hint of cardamom and allspice.  A perfectly simple summer dessert to celebrate peach season!
Check out this recipe
Peach cobbler in a white dish on a kitchen towel
Easy Danish Remoulade
A zesty Danish condiment featuring a creamy base, curry powder, chopped pickles and capers. SO delicious on hot dogs and open sandwiches (smørrebrød) of all kinds!
Check out this recipe
Danish remoulade in a bowl next to curry powder and parsley.
Swedish Cinnamon Buns
Traditional Swedish cinnamon buns (Kanelbullar) made with a sweet, buttery cardamom dough and a brown sugar cinnamon filling. Golden brown on the outside and soft and tender on the inside, they are cinnamon bun perfection!
Check out this recipe
Two Swedish cinnamon buns on a plate next to a mug of coffee, fork and napkin
Swedish Spice Cake (Mjuk Pepparkaka)
This Swedish Spice Cake is pure coziness in cake form: A moist, tender and simple spice cake flavored with the comforting flavors of gingerbread (think cinnamon, ginger and cloves) and drizzled with the possibly the easiest 3 ingredient powdered sugar icing you'll ever make.
Check out this recipe
Close up of slices of Swedish Spice Cake with lingonberries.
Swedish Ginger Snaps (Pepparkakor)
A truly special Swedish ginger snap with a crispy outer edge and a pleasantly chewy center.  The perfect fika treat!
Check out this recipe
A close up of a stack of Swedish ginger snaps and a cup of coffee
Dill Caper Butter
An easy and zesty compound butter made with chopped fresh dill and capers. Perfect for spreading on crispbread or dressing up simply cooked vegetables and meats!
Check out this recipe
Close up of round of dill caper butter on a plate next to a sprig of dill.
Creamy Egg Salad with Dill and Capers
A deliciously simple recipe for perfect egg salad featuring capers and dill.
Check out this recipe
Egg salad in a bowl with a spoon next to crackers and dill sprigs.
Nordic Summer Herb Sauce
A lively olive oil-based sauce with parsley, dill, capers, toasted garlic and lemon zest.  The perfect way to perk up easy summer meals!
Check out this recipe
A close up of a bowl of fresh herb sauce

Simplicity and Lagom in the Kitchen

Scandinavians tend to value simplicity when it comes to meal preparation.  There is generally one main course served family style, and foods are likely to be simply prepared, letting the true nature of the ingredients shine through.  Thanks to the concept of hygge which runs deep in Nordic culture, there is also a commitment to cooking intimate meals at home with friends and family instead of going out. 

Finally, there is a Swedish concept called lagom which loosely translates to “just the right amount”.  As applied to food, this means that Scandinavians tend to seek balance, both in what they decide to eat and how much.  We Americans are quick to take the extreme route when it comes to diet, attempting to cut out certain ingredients entirely.  “I’m giving up gluten,” we might say, or “I’m going sugar-free.”  In the Nordic countries people are more willing to accept that there is a middle way, a lagom way of eating that makes room for the nutrient dense ingredients AND the occasional indulgence. The Swedish tradition of fika is a great example. This long-standing custom of a daily coffee break (often accompanied by a tasty baked good) continues to be an important and vital part of Swedish culture.

My hope is that the recipes I offer you here on the blog are sometimes fresh and approachable examples of New Nordic Cuisine designed for the American home cook, and sometimes simply my updated (and hopefully delicious) versions of traditional Scandinavian dishes. My personal Nordic kitchen definitely includes both. And there is always, ALWAYS room for a fika treat in my day. I hope this inspires you to create your own New Nordic Kitchen!

More Nordic/Scandinavian Recipes

  • Shrimp smørrebrød on a wooden surface.
    How to Make Smørrebrød (Danish Open Faced Sandwiches) at Home
  • Featured image for Cardamom French Toast.
    Easy Cardamom French Toast
  • Featured image of Quick Pickled Shallots.
    Quick Pickled Shallots
  • Crackers topped with Vegetarian Mushroom Pâtë and pickled shallots and mustard seeds.
    Vegetarian Mushroom Pâté

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Scandi Breakfast Ideas

Baked oat and rye porridge with blueberries and almonds in a pan

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Close up of a bowl of Creamy Barley Breakfast Porridge with a spoon.

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