Tag: Scandinavian cuisine

The practice of serving aquavit, the Scandinavian 'water of life,' as a post-meal digestif dates back to the 16th century. This tradition is based on the long-held belief that the spirit's herbal properties, especially from caraway, can help ease digestion after a rich, fatty meal.

A 2016 study by Nofima revealed that cured herring has a significantly higher omega-3 content (4.3%) than a salmon fillet (1.5%). Pickled herring in wine sauce, a staple in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisine, is celebrated for its distinctive flavor but raises questions about its health benefits, particularly given its preservation method.

For over a thousand years, herring has been a vital food source in Europe, with fishing for this small, oily fish becoming a massive industry in the Middle Ages. Today, people continue to eat herring for a multitude of compelling reasons, blending tradition with modern health-conscious choices.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Vikings were surprisingly well-nourished, with a diet that included a rich variety of foods from farming, hunting, and foraging. So, what did a Viking diet consist of to sustain their legendary energy and strength?