Swedish smoked sausage, also known as falukorv, is a traditional and beloved food in Sweden. Made from a mixture of smoked pork and beef or veal, along with potato starch flour, onion, salt, and mild spices, falukorv is a cooked sausage that can be enjoyed without any further preparation. This article will delve into the history, variants, and typical meals associated with Swedish smoked sausage.
The History of Swedish Smoked Sausage
The origins of falukorv can be traced back to the Falun copper mine in the 16th and 17th centuries. During this time, ox hide was used for ropes, and the remaining meat after slaughter was salted and smoked to make sausages. The tradition of preparing meat in this way was revived in the late 19th century by butcher Anders Olsson. Olsson's innovations led to the development of the modern falukorv, which combines pork and beef or veal.
Variants of Swedish Smoked Sausage
Falukorv has Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) status in the European Union and the UK, meaning there are restrictions on what can be labeled as falukorv. Only potato flour can be used as a binding agent, and the meat content must be at least 45%. However, many brands of falukorv have a higher meat percentage. To differentiate from the TSG falukorv, variations of the sausage are often called middagskorv or dinner sausage. These variations can include lower fat content, chicken, or vegetarian options made from soy, pea, and potato protein or quorn.
Typical Meals with Swedish Smoked Sausage
Swedish smoked sausage is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some popular ways to prepare and serve falukorv:
- Sliced and fried with boiled, fried, or mashed potatoes
- Sliced and fried with elbow macaroni
- Sliced and fried, served with baked Swedish brown beans and a fried egg
- Partially sliced and baked au gratin with cheese and mustard, often with onion or apple tucked in between the slices; served with roast or mashed potatoes
- As a substitute for beef in beef stroganoff, resulting in a dish known as korv Stroganoff
- Diced and fried with potatoes and onions as a component of pyttipanna
What is Falukorv Made Of?
Falukorv, or Swedish smoked sausage, primarily consists of beef and pork, with potato starch, onion, and seasoning. The sausage is cooked and sold in a red plastic casing, typically in a round ring shape. The meat content must be at least 45% in the finished product, with no more than 23% fat. Falukorv is cooked when purchased and can be eaten raw.
Swedes' Love-Hate Relationship with Falukorv
Swedes have a complex relationship with falukorv. On one hand, it is the most popular type of sausage in Sweden, but on the other hand, it is often looked down upon. Due to its popularity, there are many low-quality versions available. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quality, leading to a wider range of options for consumers. Falukorv has always been considered a working-class food and has never been trendy or fancy. Nonetheless, it remains a beloved and nostalgic dish for many Swedes.
How to Enjoy Falukorv
There are numerous ways to enjoy Swedish smoked sausage, but here are three popular methods:
- Pan-fried with creamed macaroni: Slice the falukorv and pan-fry it, then serve it with macaroni in a creamy bechamel sauce, often accompanied by ketchup or other creamed vegetables.
- Baked in the oven with mashed potatoes: Cut the falukorv into slices, resembling a hasselback potato, and add cheese, mustard, and ketchup between the slices. Bake it in the oven and serve it with mashed potatoes.
- Korv Stroganoff: Cut the falukorv into strips and pan-fry them with sliced onions. Add tomato paste or canned tomatoes, as well as milk and/or cream. Serve the Korv Stroganoff with boiled rice.
Swedish smoked sausage is also a popular choice for camping trips, as a slice grilled over an open fire makes for a delicious snack. Additionally, it can be enjoyed for brunch or paired with fried eggs.
Fun Fact: Falukorv and Osama Bin Laden
In a curious anecdote, it is said that terrorist Osama Bin Laden had an unfortunate encounter with Swedish falukorv. During a visit to the copper mines of Falun in 1971, Bin Laden tried Fried falukorv with potatoes and mustard. However, the mustard proved to be too strong for him, and he fell violently ill, resorting to vomiting to rid himself of the unpleasant sensation. Perhaps he should have opted for the creamed macaroni version instead!
In Conclusion
Swedish smoked sausage, or falukorv, is a versatile and beloved delicacy in Sweden. Its history dates back centuries, and it has become an integral part of Swedish cuisine. Whether pan-fried, baked, or incorporated into various dishes, falukorv offers a delicious, affordable, and nostalgic dining experience. So, next time you're in Sweden, don't miss the opportunity to savor this iconic sausage!
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