40+ Festive New Years Scandinavian Recipes to Try

As the year draws to a close, the excitement of ringing in the New Year takes center stage, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious spread of Scandinavian-inspired dishes?

Known for their hearty, comforting flavors and rich traditions, Scandinavian recipes have long been a favorite for holiday feasts.

Whether you’re looking for savory bites, sweet treats, or cozy beverages, Scandinavian cuisine offers a wealth of options to ensure your New Year’s celebration is both memorable and flavorful.

In this blog post, we’ve curated 40+ fantastic Scandinavian recipes that capture the essence of the Nordic holiday season, from traditional Swedish meatballs to Finnish pastries and Norwegian fish dishes.

These recipes are perfect for your New Year’s Eve dinner, offering something for every palate.

From appetizers to main courses, desserts, and festive drinks, these recipes will give you a taste of Scandinavian culture and help you ring in the New Year with style and flavor.

Let’s dive into these culinary delights that are sure to impress your guests and make your celebration unforgettable.

40+ Festive New Years Scandinavian Recipes to Try

Scandinavian cuisine brings warmth, tradition, and rich flavors to the table, making it a perfect choice for your New Year’s celebration.

The 40+ recipes featured in this post are just a glimpse of the delicious dishes you can incorporate into your festivities.

Whether you choose to prepare a comforting bowl of Swedish meatballs, serve up Karelian pasties as appetizers, or enjoy a sweet Scandinavian dessert like kransekake, these recipes will create a festive atmosphere filled with delightful flavors.

Embrace the culinary traditions of Scandinavia this New Year, and share the joy of these delicious dishes with friends and family as you celebrate the start of a fresh, exciting year ahead.

Scandinavian Smoked Salmon Toasts

Smoked salmon toasts are a classic Scandinavian appetizer that blends rich, smoky flavors with fresh, crisp ingredients. Perfect for a New Year’s celebration, these toasts are simple yet elegant, making them an ideal dish for holiday parties or a festive brunch. They combine cream cheese, dill, and capers, all atop crunchy rye bread, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 loaf rye bread (sliced into small pieces)
  • 200g smoked salmon (thinly sliced)
  • 200g cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Freshly ground black pepper
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the slices of rye bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
  2. While the bread is toasting, mix the cream cheese with the chopped dill in a small bowl. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Once the bread is toasted, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each slice.
  4. Top the cream cheese with slices of smoked salmon, a few capers, and a few rings of red onion.
  5. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and garnish with extra dill for a fresh touch.

These Scandinavian smoked salmon toasts are the epitome of Scandinavian simplicity and flavor, combining the smoky richness of salmon with the tangy creaminess of cheese and the sharpness of capers and onions. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated New Year’s party or enjoying a quiet holiday brunch, these toasts are sure to impress. They are easy to make, yet feel luxurious, perfect for adding a touch of Scandinavian charm to your celebration.

Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar)

Swedish meatballs, or Köttbullar, are a beloved staple of Swedish cuisine, often served with lingonberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is ideal for a New Year’s feast, offering comfort and flavor in every bite. The combination of seasoned beef and pork, rich gravy, and sweet-tart lingonberries makes this a crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for ringing in the new year.

• Ingredients:
  • 250g ground beef
  • 250g ground pork
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 3 tablespoons butter (for frying)
  • 2 tablespoons flour (for gravy)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Lingonberry jam (for serving)
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk and let it soak for a few minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything together until fully combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning them until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes per batch.
  5. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the flour and stir to form a roux. Slowly add the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
  6. Once the gravy thickens, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes.
  7. Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and a side of pickled cucumbers.

Swedish meatballs are an irresistible combination of savory, spiced meat, creamy gravy, and a hint of sweetness from the lingonberry jam. They are a hearty and comforting dish that will satisfy guests of all ages. The rich flavors and tender meatballs make this dish a perfect way to celebrate New Year’s Eve or Day with a taste of Sweden. This recipe is sure to be a hit at your celebration and will leave your guests craving more.

Norwegian Risengrynsgrøt (Rice Porridge)

Risengrynsgrøt is a traditional Norwegian rice porridge often enjoyed as a festive breakfast on New Year’s Day. This creamy, comforting dish is made with just a few simple ingredients but is deeply satisfying, especially when topped with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and a pat of butter. The tradition of hiding one whole almond in the porridge is said to bring good luck to the person who finds it, adding a touch of fun to the celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup short-grain rice (preferably pudding rice)
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 whole almond (optional, for tradition)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large saucepan, combine the rice, milk, and salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally.
  2. Cook the porridge for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is soft and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
  3. While the porridge is cooking, place the almond in the pot (if you’re using one) and stir it in well. Be careful not to let it get stuck at the bottom.
  4. Once the porridge is ready, remove it from the heat and stir in the sugar and butter until fully combined.
  5. Serve the porridge in bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar and a pat of butter.

Norwegian Risengrynsgrøt is the ultimate cozy dish to enjoy on New Year’s morning, offering warmth and comfort to kick-start the year. The creamy texture and simple yet flavorful toppings make it a dish that feels both traditional and indulgent. Whether you’re continuing the tradition of hiding an almond for luck or simply enjoying the classic combination of cinnamon and butter, this porridge will bring a little Scandinavian magic to your New Year’s celebrations. It’s a perfect dish for both relaxation and fun, and it will leave everyone feeling happy and satisfied as they welcome the new year.

Danish Aebleskiver (Apple Pancake Balls)

Aebleskiver are a popular Danish treat, often enjoyed during the Christmas and New Year holidays. These fluffy, ball-shaped pancakes are traditionally filled with apple slices, making them a delightful combination of sweet and savory. Served with powdered sugar, jam, or syrup, Aebleskiver make for a fun, shareable dish that will brighten any New Year’s celebration, with their light texture and cozy flavor perfect for family gatherings.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 large eggs (separated)
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 apple (peeled, cored, and chopped into small cubes)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Jam (for serving, optional)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and then mix them with the buttermilk and melted butter.
  3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick but smooth.
  4. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter, keeping the mixture light and airy.
  5. Heat an Aebleskiver pan (a special pan with round indentations) over medium heat and lightly grease each well with butter.
  6. Spoon the batter into each indentation, filling it halfway. Add a small cube of apple to the center of each pancake ball, then top with more batter.
  7. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side, then use a skewer or chopstick to turn the pancakes and cook on the other side for another 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Serve hot, dusted with powdered sugar and jam on the side.

Danish Aebleskiver are a fun, delicious, and festive treat that will surely add joy to your New Year’s celebrations. The combination of light, fluffy pancakes and sweet apple filling is irresistible, making these little treats the perfect choice for a cozy brunch or dessert. They’re also fun to make, as everyone gets involved in flipping the pancakes and sharing them warm from the pan. Whether enjoyed with jam or dusted with powdered sugar, Aebleskiver are a sweet way to start the year off right.

Finnish Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pasties)

Karelian Pasties are a beloved Finnish pastry traditionally filled with a rice porridge mixture and wrapped in a thin rye crust. These savory pastries are often served with egg butter, a creamy mixture of hard-boiled eggs and butter, making them an ideal snack or side dish for New Year’s feasts. They are hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, offering a true taste of Finnish cuisine to your holiday table.

• Ingredients:
  • For the dough:
    • 1 1/2 cups rye flour
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup water
    • 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • For the filling:
    • 1 cup short-grain rice
    • 2 cups water
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 tablespoon butter
  • For the egg butter:
    • 2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
    • 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
    • Pinch of salt
• Instructions:
  1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Add the water and melted butter, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for a few minutes until smooth. Cover and set aside.
  2. Prepare the filling: In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice and cook for about 10 minutes, then reduce the heat and add the milk. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy. Add the salt and butter, and stir to combine. Set aside to cool.
  3. Shape the pasties: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a thin oval shape on a floured surface. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the rice filling into the center of each oval, spreading it out but leaving a border around the edges.
  4. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to create a pleated shape, pinching the sides to seal the pastry.
  5. Place the pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Prepare the egg butter: In a small bowl, mix the chopped hard-boiled eggs with melted butter and a pinch of salt.
  7. Serve the pasties warm, topped with a spoonful of egg butter.

Finnish Karjalanpiirakka brings a comforting, rustic flavor to any celebration, and its unique combination of rye pastry, creamy rice filling, and egg butter makes it a memorable treat. Whether served as a snack or paired with a festive meal, these pasties are a true taste of Finland and offer a hearty, satisfying bite. Perfect for New Year’s, they symbolize warmth, tradition, and hospitality, ensuring your holiday table is full of deliciously authentic Scandinavian flavors.

Icelandic Hangikjöt (Smoked Lamb)

Hangikjöt, or smoked lamb, is a traditional Icelandic dish often served during festive occasions, particularly around Christmas and New Year. This dish involves slow-cooking smoked lamb until it is tender and flavorful, then serving it with boiled potatoes, a rich béchamel sauce, and pickled red cabbage. Its smoky, savory flavor is perfectly suited for the holiday season, making it a great addition to any New Year’s celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs smoked lamb (traditionally available in Iceland, but any smoked lamb shoulder can be substituted)
  • 4 medium potatoes (peeled and boiled)
  • 1 cup béchamel sauce (made with butter, flour, and milk)
  • 1/2 cup pickled red cabbage (for serving)
  • Fresh herbs (for garnish, optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the smoked lamb in a roasting pan and cover it with foil.
  2. Roast the lamb for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and can easily be pulled apart with a fork. Check occasionally, adding a bit of water to the pan to keep the meat moist.
  3. While the lamb is roasting, boil the potatoes until soft, about 20 minutes.
  4. Prepare the béchamel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually add milk, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens.
  5. Once the lamb is ready, remove it from the oven and carve into thin slices.
  6. Serve the lamb with the boiled potatoes, béchamel sauce, and pickled red cabbage on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Icelandic Hangikjöt is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Icelandic tradition to your New Year’s feast. The smoky lamb, combined with creamy béchamel sauce and tangy pickled cabbage, creates a deliciously balanced meal perfect for the holiday season. This dish offers a rich, savory experience that will leave your guests talking long after the celebration ends. Whether enjoyed in the heart of winter or at a New Year’s gathering, Hangikjöt is a true celebration of Icelandic cuisine and hospitality.

Swedish Janssons Frestelse (Jansson’s Temptation)

Janssons Frestelse, or “Jansson’s Temptation,” is a classic Swedish casserole made with potatoes, anchovies (or sprats), onions, and cream. This rich, savory dish is often served during holiday feasts such as Christmas and New Year’s. Its creamy texture, combined with the salty flavor of the anchovies, creates a comforting, flavorful side dish that pairs well with roast meats or can be enjoyed on its own. Perfect for family gatherings, this traditional dish brings warmth and nostalgia to any New Year’s celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
  • 1 large onion (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 can of anchovies or sprats in brine (about 3.5 oz)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill (for garnish)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a buttered baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes, followed by a few anchovies (or sprats). Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
  4. In a bowl, combine the cream and milk. Pour this mixture over the layered potatoes and anchovies. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
  7. Garnish with fresh dill and serve hot.

Janssons Frestelse is a dish that captures the essence of Swedish comfort food. The creamy richness of the potatoes and onions paired with the distinct, briny flavor of anchovies creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s a perfect choice for New Year’s celebrations, offering a taste of Sweden’s holiday traditions that’s sure to please your guests. This casserole can be prepared in advance, making it an easy yet impressive dish to serve at any festive gathering.

Norwegian Risengrynsgrøt (Rice Porridge)

Risengrynsgrøt is a traditional Norwegian rice porridge typically enjoyed during the holiday season, particularly for breakfast or as a comforting dish after a cold winter’s day. Made with short-grain rice, milk, and sugar, this dish is hearty, warming, and simple to make. Traditionally, a single whole almond is hidden in the porridge, and the person who finds it is said to have good luck in the coming year. This comforting dish is a great way to start the New Year on a warm note, and it’s perfect for gatherings with family and friends.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar (optional)
  • 1 whole almond (for the tradition)
  • Cinnamon sugar (for topping)
  • Butter (for serving)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large pot, combine the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the water.
  2. Add the milk to the pot and stir. Cook the porridge over low heat, stirring frequently, for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the porridge has thickened. Be sure to stir often to prevent the milk from burning.
  3. While cooking, add the salt and sugar (if desired), adjusting to taste. If you want to include the traditional whole almond, carefully add it to the pot during the cooking process and make sure it stays hidden in the porridge.
  4. Once the porridge is ready, remove it from the heat. If you added the almond, remove it carefully and save it for later.
  5. Serve the porridge hot, with a pat of butter in the center and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top.

Risengrynsgrøt is more than just a dish; it’s a cherished holiday tradition in Norway that symbolizes warmth, comfort, and togetherness. The creamy texture of the porridge combined with the sweet cinnamon and sugar creates a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether enjoyed for breakfast on New Year’s Day or as an afternoon treat, this hearty dish will leave you feeling content and ready for the year ahead. Sharing the porridge with loved ones adds an extra layer of warmth, especially when the lucky almond is found!

Finnish Uunipuuro (Oven-Baked Porridge)

Uunipuuro is a traditional Finnish oven-baked porridge, typically made with rice, milk, and sugar. This comforting dish is baked slowly in the oven, resulting in a creamy, thick consistency that’s perfect for the cold winter months. Often served during holiday breakfasts or New Year’s mornings, Uunipuuro is topped with butter and sugar, making it a sweet and satisfying way to start the day. It’s a great dish to serve at family gatherings, offering both warmth and tradition.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Ground cinnamon or cardamom (optional, for serving)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter.
  2. In the prepared baking dish, combine the rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed in the milk.
  3. Dot the top of the mixture with small pieces of butter.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the rice is tender and the porridge has thickened. Stir once halfway through the baking time.
  5. Once the porridge is done, remove it from the oven. Serve it warm with a pat of butter on top and a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom for extra flavor.

Uunipuuro is a cozy and hearty Finnish dish that brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort to any New Year’s morning. The slow-baked rice and milk meld into a thick, creamy porridge that is rich in flavor and satisfying in texture. The addition of butter and a sprinkle of sugar or cinnamon elevates this dish into a delightful holiday breakfast. Whether enjoyed with family or as a personal indulgence, Uunipuuro is the perfect way to usher in the new year, bringing warmth and happiness to your celebrations.

Danish Frikadeller (Danish Meatballs)

Frikadeller, or Danish meatballs, are a beloved dish in Denmark, often served during holiday meals or family gatherings. Made from a mixture of ground pork and beef, seasoned with onions, salt, and pepper, these flavorful meatballs are pan-fried to golden perfection. Frikadeller are typically served with boiled potatoes, pickled vegetables, or a rich gravy. They are a perfect savory dish for New Year’s celebrations, providing both comfort and tradition on the dinner table.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Butter or oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, mix the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Use your hands to form small meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
  3. Heat a generous amount of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook them in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes).
  4. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and drain them on paper towels.
  5. Serve the Frikadeller with boiled potatoes, pickled red cabbage, or a rich brown gravy.

Frikadeller is a simple yet hearty dish that brings a touch of Danish tradition to your holiday table. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, with a crisp exterior and juicy interior, making them the perfect comfort food. Whether paired with potatoes, pickled vegetables, or a savory gravy, these meatballs are sure to be a hit during New Year’s celebrations. Their rustic simplicity makes them a crowd-pleaser and a perfect representation of Denmark’s rich culinary heritage.

Swedish Köttbullar (Swedish Meatballs)

Swedish meatballs, or Köttbullar, are perhaps one of Sweden’s most famous culinary exports. These small, round meatballs are made from a mixture of ground beef and pork, flavored with onions, allspice, and pepper. Typically served with lingonberry jam and creamy mashed potatoes, Köttbullar is a hearty dish perfect for New Year’s feasts. Their rich, savory flavor, combined with the sweet-sour jam and smooth potatoes, creates an irresistible combination that will delight guests and bring a taste of Sweden to the celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
  4. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
  5. To make a simple gravy, add a bit of flour to the remaining fat in the skillet and stir to make a roux. Gradually add water or beef broth, whisking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and the gravy.

Köttbullar is the quintessential Swedish dish that captures the essence of comfort food with its savory flavors and rich texture. The combination of the spiced meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and the tangy sweetness of lingonberry jam makes this dish irresistible for New Year’s celebrations. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as part of a festive spread, Swedish meatballs will transport you to the heart of Swedish culinary tradition and are sure to leave your guests satisfied and asking for seconds.

Finnish Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup)

Lohikeitto is a creamy Finnish salmon soup that is a staple in Finnish cuisine, especially during the colder months and holiday season. This soup combines tender chunks of salmon with creamy broth, potatoes, leeks, and dill, creating a warm and nourishing dish that is perfect for celebrating the New Year. The delicate flavors of the salmon and vegetables come together in a harmonious way, making Lohikeitto an elegant yet comforting dish ideal for any festive meal.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into chunks
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
  • 4 cups fish stock or water
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and cook until it softens, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the fish stock or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  3. Add the chunks of salmon to the pot and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
  5. Remove the soup from heat and stir in the fresh dill.
  6. Serve the soup hot with a slice of rye bread or a sprinkle of additional dill.

Lohikeitto is a Finnish classic that brings warmth and comfort to any New Year’s celebration. The creamy soup, filled with tender chunks of salmon, vegetables, and fresh dill, offers a perfect balance of flavors. It’s both light yet hearty, making it an excellent choice for a festive meal that will leave your guests feeling nourished and satisfied. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, and you’ve got a dish that embodies the spirit of Finnish culinary traditions.

Norwegian Risengrynsgrøt (Norwegian Rice Porridge)

Risengrynsgrøt is a beloved Norwegian dish typically enjoyed during the holiday season, including New Year’s Day. This creamy rice porridge is made from short-grain rice cooked in milk and sugar, often served with a generous sprinkling of cinnamon and sugar on top. A traditional custom is to hide one whole almond in the porridge, and whoever finds it is said to have good luck for the coming year. This comforting and simple dish captures the essence of Scandinavian coziness and is a perfect way to start a festive day.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Ground cinnamon and sugar for serving
  • 1 whole almond (optional, for luck)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large pot, bring the rice and milk to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  2. Once the milk starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the salt and sugar towards the end of the cooking time.
  3. When the rice is tender and the porridge has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. If desired, place the whole almond in the pot and stir it into the porridge (traditionally, one person hides the almond).
  4. Serve the porridge hot, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar.

Risengrynsgrøt is not only a traditional holiday dish but also a heartwarming way to bring people together during New Year’s celebrations. Its creamy texture and comforting flavor make it an ideal breakfast or dessert for the occasion. The hidden almond adds an element of fun and excitement, making it a playful and meaningful tradition for all ages. Serve this delightful dish with a smile and share the joy of the New Year with your loved ones.

Swedish Janssons Frestelse (Jansson’s Temptation)

Janssons Frestelse is a classic Swedish dish that often graces the table during holiday feasts, including New Year’s celebrations. It’s a creamy potato casserole made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, onions, anchovies (or anchovy paste), and heavy cream, all baked to golden perfection. The unique combination of flavors creates a comforting, indulgent dish that pairs beautifully with herring, cured meats, and other Scandinavian holiday delicacies. This hearty casserole is a perfect addition to any festive spread and is sure to satisfy even the most discerning guests.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup anchovy filets (or 1 tablespoon anchovy paste)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the sautéed onions and half of the anchovies or anchovy paste. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and anchovies.
  4. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a crunchy finish.
  6. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Janssons Frestelse is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Swedish comfort food. The combination of tender potatoes, savory onions, and the distinctive taste of anchovies creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it’s an essential part of any festive New Year’s celebration. This casserole will surely delight your guests with its homey, indulgent appeal and leave them asking for the recipe.

Finnish Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pasties)

Karjalanpiirakka, or Karelian pasties, are traditional Finnish pastries that are often enjoyed during New Year’s celebrations. These hand-held pastries have a thin rye crust filled with a creamy rice porridge mixture, sometimes mixed with mashed potatoes or egg butter. Originally from the Karelian region of Finland, these savory pastries are a popular snack or appetizer. The delicate combination of flavors and textures makes Karjalanpiirakka a delightful treat that represents Finnish hospitality and is perfect for adding a unique, flavorful touch to a New Year’s gathering.

• Ingredients:
  • For the crust:
    • 1 1/2 cups rye flour
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup water
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • For the filling:
    • 1/2 cup short-grain rice
    • 2 cups milk
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 tablespoon butter
    • 1/4 cup egg butter (optional, for topping)
• Instructions:
  1. To make the dough, combine the rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt in a bowl. Add the water and vegetable oil, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil, then add the rice and salt. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the milk has absorbed. Add butter and stir until melted.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  4. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten each ball into a thin oval shape.
  5. Spoon a generous amount of rice filling onto each dough circle, then fold the edges over the filling, leaving the center exposed.
  6. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Optionally, brush the finished pasties with egg butter for added richness.

Karjalanpiirakka is a perfect example of Finnish culinary tradition, combining a hearty, flavorful filling with a crisp rye crust. The rice porridge filling provides a creamy contrast to the slightly chewy, rustic crust, while the egg butter adds a luscious finish. These pastries are great for serving as appetizers or snacks during New Year’s celebrations, offering your guests a delicious, authentic taste of Finland. Their portability and rich flavor make them ideal for festive gatherings, adding a unique touch to any table.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!