Scandinavian Fish Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals

Scandinavian fish recipes are a delightful journey into the heart of Northern European cuisine, where fresh, simple ingredients meet traditional techniques to create dishes full of flavor and character.

The coastal regions of Scandinavia have long relied on fish as a staple, leading to a rich culinary heritage featuring everything from cured salmon to hearty fish stews. Whether you’re craving the smoky, delicate taste of gravlax or the comforting warmth of a classic fiskesuppe (fish soup), these recipes offer a true taste of the Nordic seas.

What makes Scandinavian fish dishes truly special is their focus on freshness, minimalism, and the use of natural flavors enhanced by herbs, root vegetables, and creamy sauces. They are perfect for anyone who appreciates wholesome, nourishing food with a touch of elegance.

In this post, we’ll explore three iconic Scandinavian fish recipes that are easy to prepare at home and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Scandinavian fish recipes stand out for their balance of simplicity and sophistication. By using fresh, high-quality fish and subtle seasonings, these recipes allow the natural flavors to shine.

They are also incredibly versatile, suitable for casual dinners or special occasions alike.

These dishes are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, making them a healthy choice for any diet. Plus, many of these recipes come together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.

The comforting textures and gentle flavors will make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Nordic cabin, no matter where you are.

Ingredients

Gravlax (Cured Salmon)

• 500g fresh salmon fillet, skin on, pin bones removed
• 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp crushed white peppercorns
• 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp vodka or aquavit (optional)

Fiskesuppe (Norwegian Fish Soup)

• 400g white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or pollock), cut into chunks
• 200g salmon fillet, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 liter fish stock or vegetable stock
• 200ml heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh dill and parsley for garnish
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Swedish Pan-Fried Herring

• 400g pickled herring fillets
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Butter or oil for frying
• Fresh chives for garnish
• Boiled potatoes, to serve

Equipment

• Sharp filleting knife
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap or vacuum-seal bags
• Large pot or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Frying pan or skillet
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Chopping board
• Slotted spoon

Instructions

Gravlax (Cured Salmon)

1. Prepare the curing mix: In a bowl, combine the sea salt, sugar, and crushed white peppercorns.
2. Lay the salmon fillet: Place the salmon skin-side down on a large piece of plastic wrap.
3. Add dill and curing mix: Sprinkle half the dill evenly over the salmon, then cover it with the salt-sugar mixture. Add the remaining dill on top. Optionally, drizzle the vodka or aquavit over the fish for extra flavor.
4. Wrap and weigh down: Wrap the salmon tightly in the plastic wrap, place it in a baking dish, and set a weight on top (like a heavy plate) to press the fish.
5. Refrigerate: Place the wrapped salmon in the fridge for 48 hours, turning the package every 12 hours to ensure even curing.
6. Serve: After curing, unwrap the salmon, rinse off the curing mix gently, pat dry, and slice thinly to serve with mustard sauce or rye bread.

Fiskesuppe (Norwegian Fish Soup)

1. Sauté vegetables: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add potatoes and stock: Stir in cubed potatoes and pour in the fish stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Add fish: Gently add white fish and salmon chunks to the pot. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until fish is cooked through but still tender.
4. Finish with cream: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and white pepper. Heat through but do not boil.
5. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill and parsley.

Swedish Pan-Fried Herring

1. Prepare herring: Drain the pickled herring fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Coat with flour: Lightly dust each fillet with all-purpose flour.
3. Heat pan: Warm butter or oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. Fry herring: Fry the fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crisp.
5. Sauté onions: In the same pan, lightly sauté the sliced onions until soft and translucent.
6. Serve: Arrange the fried herring on a plate, top with sautéed onions, garnish with fresh chives, and serve with boiled potatoes.

Tips & Variations

For gravlax, use the freshest salmon possible, ideally sashimi grade, to ensure safety and the best flavor.

Try adding a touch of lemon zest or juniper berries to the curing mix for an extra Nordic twist.

Fiskesuppe can be made with any firm white fish you prefer; smoked fish can add a delightful depth.

For a lighter version of the fish soup, substitute cream with coconut milk.

Instead of pickled herring, you can use fresh herring fillets marinated at home with vinegar, sugar, and spices.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Scandinavian fish dishes pair wonderfully with traditional sides like boiled new potatoes, crisp rye bread, or fresh cucumber salad. For gravlax, a dollop of mustard-dill sauce or a simple horseradish cream complements the rich salmon beautifully.

Fiskesuppe is perfect as a warming starter or main dish, especially when accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. Consider serving it with a light white wine or a cold, crisp beer for an authentic Nordic experience.

Swedish pan-fried herring makes a fantastic appetizer or light dinner. Serve it alongside pickled vegetables or a fresh beetroot salad to balance the richness of the fish.

Conclusion

Exploring Scandinavian fish recipes opens up a world of fresh, wholesome, and delicious flavors rooted in tradition. Whether you choose to cure your own gravlax, simmer a comforting bowl of fiskesuppe, or pan-fry some classic Swedish herring, these dishes offer a perfect balance of simplicity and elegance.

By embracing the natural taste of quality fish and complementing it with fresh herbs and simple accompaniments, you can create meals that are both nourishing and impressive. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these recipes and bring a little Nordic charm to your table.

For more inspiration on wholesome, healthy meals, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, explore fresh flavors with our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, or warm up with cozy comfort food like the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

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