Swedish lingonberry sauce
Scandinavian cuisine is known for its simplicity, yet distinctively unique flavors. One classic ingredient that has been a staple in the Scandinavian pantry for generations is the lingonberry - a small, red berry that grows wild in the forests of Sweden.
Lingonberry sauce is a classic condiment in Swedish cuisine that is traditionally served with meatballs, Swedish pancakes, or as a side to various game dishes. This sauce is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a slightly tangy flavor that adds depth and complexity to any meal.
The lingonberry is a superfood that is packed with antioxidants, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also known for its antibacterial properties, and research indicates that it may help prevent certain types of cancer.
To make the perfect lingonberry sauce, you will need just a few simple ingredients. Fresh lingonberries can be difficult to find outside of Sweden, but frozen berries or lingonberry preserves can be used as a substitute.
To start, you will need to gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup lingonberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Begin by adding the lingonberries, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves to a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to help dissolve the sugar.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. As the sauce cooks, the lingonberries will begin to break down and release their juices, creating a fragrant and flavorful sauce.
In a separate small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the lingonberry sauce, and stir until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick and cloves. Allow the lingonberry sauce to cool for a few minutes before serving. This sauce can be served warm or cold, and it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Lingonberry sauce is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, from pork tenderloin and roasted chicken to waffles and crepes. The tartness of the lingonberries also complements rich and savory flavors, making it an ideal sauce for game meats like venison and elk.
In addition to its delicious taste, lingonberry sauce is a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet. Its many health benefits make it an ideal ingredient to incorporate into your cooking, and its distinctively Scandinavian flavor profile will transport you straight to the forests of Sweden.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lingonberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the lingonberries, water, sugar, and cinnamon stick.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the lingonberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water until smooth.
- Remove the cinnamon stick from the saucepan and discard.
- Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the lingonberry sauce, stirring constantly.
- Cook the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
- Serve the lingonberry sauce warm or chilled with your favorite dishes, such as Swedish meatballs or pancakes. Enjoy!