Few dishes capture the heart of Swedish Christmas like julskinka, the traditional Christmas ham. This centerpiece of the julbord, Sweden’s holiday buffet, carries centuries of history. Dating back to the 16th century, when fresh pork was a rare treat, julskinka became a symbol of festive abundance. Historically tied to the Norse sacrifice of the sonargöltr, a boar offered to the god Freyr, this dish has transformed into a modern-day holiday staple that connects past and present.

How Julskinka is Made

The preparation of julskinka is an art that blends simplicity and tradition. First, the ham is cooked gently, often by boiling or baking, with a fragrant blend of spices like cloves and bay leaves. Once fully cooked, it’s time for the magical glaze. A mixture of mustard, egg yolk, and breadcrumbs is brushed onto the ham, forming a golden crust after baking. The final product? A succulent, flavorful ham with a deliciously crispy topping that’s served thinly sliced, often cold.

Versatile on the Julbord

On the Swedish Christmas table, julskinka pairs effortlessly with a variety of other festive dishes. Whether accompanied by sharp mustard, tangy pickled vegetables, or hearty rye bread, its versatility shines. A classic pairing is with a dollop of Swedish mustard (senap) and knäckebröd, bringing a perfect balance of textures and flavors. For those who want a modern twist, it’s a fantastic topping for canapés or as part of a charcuterie platter.

The Julskinka Test Tradition

In some Swedish households, the unveiling of the julskinka includes a special moment called the "first slice" tradition. Before glazing and baking, a small slice of the freshly cooked ham is cut and served as a taste test. This isn't just about quality control—it's a cherished ritual! Often enjoyed warm and paired with a dollop of mustard on crispbread (knäckebröd), this first bite is a sneak peek at the festive flavors to come. For many, it's a nostalgic and intimate moment that marks the true beginning of the Christmas celebration. This tradition emphasizes the Swedish love for savoring food as an experience and reflects the deep connection between family, heritage, and the holiday feast.

Julskinka Roll-Ups with Cream Cheese and Chives

Ingredients:

• 6 thin slices of julskinka (Christmas ham)
• 100g cream cheese
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Crispbread or crackers for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:
Mix the cream cheese, chopped chives, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth.

Assemble the Roll-Ups:
Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly onto each slice of julskinka. Roll them up tightly.

Slice and Serve:
Slice each roll into bite-sized pieces. Serve as is, or place on top of crispbread or crackers for added texture.