Swedish traditions

All countries have their own celebrations, traditions and festivals. Most Swedish traditions have been developed over many centuries through influences from many different countries and cultures; while we're almost the only country in the world celebrating others.

Festivals in the year

Most Swedes celebrate Christmas, New Year and Midsummer. Other celebrations and festivals are Easter, Walpurgis Night (the night before May Day), May Day, Sweden's National Day, Crayfish parties and Lucia.

Basic recipe for classic Swedish meatballs

Classic meatballs are the most commonly exported Swedish dish. These meatballs are also really easy to make. Try out different things to make your own favourite recipe!

1 1/2 dl milk
5 tbsp breadcrumbs
500 g minced beef or half beef-half pork
1/2 onion, peeled and grated
1 egg
1 tsp salt
1 pinch of pepper
butter or margarine

Mix the milk and breadcrumbs. Leave to expand for 10 minutes. Add the mince, onion, egg, salt, pepper and sugar to the breadcrumb mixture. Work the mince until it's smooth.

Damp your hands with cold water and shape the meatballs. Fry a few at a time in cooking oil, shaking the pan occasionally so that the meatballs roll around and retain their shape.

Serve your meatballs with boiled potatoes or mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.