Scandanavia

Food Culture:  Hearty fare predominates throughout the Scandinavian countries. The Danish feeling of hygge reflects that "warm, fuzzy feeling" one gets from comfort foods; cabbage rolls and smoked fish contribute to a substantial part of the Finnish diet; meatballs are popular in Sweden; and from Norway, grandma's Lefse is always a good bet (although she can keep the Lutefisk!).

While the countries that make up the Scandinavian region each have their food nuances, much of the region's cuisine reflects the relatively harsh winters and short growing season. Smoked and cured fish and meats are staples, as are geographically tolerant fruits and vegetables. Milk is a staple product and cheeses (think Jarlsberg!) are often exported.

The European Union has helped to open the region to more reasonably priced food imports and is expanding the menu of Scandinavian countries—although most open-air markets still feature locally grown produce and regional fish and game products. Taste the Culture of Scandinavia!

Scandinavia is the northern region of Europe usually comprised of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark; sometimes, the name is used more broadly and is inclusive of Finland and Iceland.

Indigenous peoples of Scandinavia lived relatively peaceful lives hunting and fishing, even while the most common perception of Scandinavians is burly Vikings pillaging. While Vikings did play a significant part in the region's history, most notably Norwegian history, their influence was felt mainly within the region with little lasting impact elsewhere.

Denmark, the land of Shakespeare's Hamlet, led the move to a more European Scandinavia. Eventually, powers within the region became opposing factions in wars. Today, Scandinavia mixes rich cultural heritage with growing economic and political strength. To learn more about Scandinavia, please see the Research the Continents page.