Source: Denmark.dk
Summer Delicacies in Denmark
As the Danish summer unfolds, so does a cornucopia of delicious treats that capture the essence of the season. Whether you're strolling through the streets of Copenhagen or exploring the idyllic countryside, here are some must-try delicacies that embody the flavors of Danish summer:
1. Danish Strawberries (Danske Jordbær): Danish strawberries are renowned for their sweet, juicy flavor and vibrant red color. They're typically in season from late spring to early summer and are a beloved seasonal treat. Enjoy them fresh on their own,or try them in desserts like strawberry shortcake or as a topping for ice cream.
2. Sild (Pickled Herring): Pickled herring is a traditional Danish dish that's often enjoyed during the summer months, especially at gatherings and picnics. Sild comes in various flavors and preparations, including curry herring, dill herring, and onion herring. It's typically served cold with rye bread and toppings like onions and capers.
3. Grilled Fiskefilet (Grilled Fish Fillets): In Denmark, summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh seafood, including grilled fish fillets. Whether it's flounder, mackerel, or salmon, grilled fish is a popular summertime dish that's often served with new potatoes, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.
4. Cold Potato Salad (Kold Kartoffelsalat): Cold potato salad is a classic Danish side dish that's enjoyed year-round but is particularly refreshing during the summer. It's made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, onions, and fresh herbs, and is often served alongside grilled meats or fish at summer barbecues and picnics.
5. Cucumber Salad (Agurkesalat): Cucumber salad is a light and refreshing side dish that's perfect for summer dining. It's made with thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in a sweet and tangy dressing made from vinegar, sugar, and dill. Cucumber salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches).
6. Kirsebærkage (Cherry Cake): During the summer months, Danish cherry season is in full swing, and kirsebærkage (cherry cake) is a popular dessert made with fresh cherries. This moist and flavorful cake is often topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and makes for a delightful summer treat.
7. Grønne Asparges (Green Asparagus): Fresh green asparagus is abundant in Denmark during the summer and is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in various dishes. Whether roasted, grilled, or sautéed, green asparagus adds a vibrant and flavorful touch to salads, pasta dishes, and savory tarts.
8. Koldskål is a traditional Danish cold buttermilk soup flavored with vanilla and lemon. It's served chilled and often enjoyed as a refreshing treat during the warm summer months. Koldskål has a creamy texture and a tangy-sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with crunchy kammerjunkere biscuits.
9. Kammerjunkere are small, crunchy biscuits similar to rusks or biscotti. They're typically made with flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and a hint of cardamom for flavor. Kammerjunkere are lightly sweetened and perfect for dipping into the creamy koldskål soup. Together, koldskål med kammerjunkere is a classic Danish summertime dessert that's beloved by locals and visitors alike.
10. Is (Ice Cream): Cool off with a scoop or two of Danish ice cream, crafted from locally sourced dairy and infused with creative flavors such as elderflower, licorice, rhubarb, and sea buckthorn. Whether enjoyed in a crisp waffle cone or atop a freshly baked Danish pastry, ice cream is a quintessential summer indulgence that delights the taste buds.
These delectable summer delicacies capture the essence of Danish cuisine and are sure to delight your taste buds during your time living in Denmark. So, take a culinary journey through Denmark's vibrant food culture and savour the tastes of summer in every bite! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Alison, OLS Community Manager - Danish