Crayfish were introduced to the Swedish diet in the 16th century, initially gracing the tables of the aristocracy and royalty. Their luxurious status made them a symbol of affluence and fine dining. By the 19th century, these tasty crustaceans found their way into the kitchens of the common folk, becoming a staple in Swedish cuisine.The late 19th century saw the birth of the beloved Swedish crayfish party, or "kräftskiva." Traditionally held in August, these festive gatherings celebrate the end of the crayfish fishing season. At a kräftskiva, friends and family don bibs and hats, sing songs, and enjoy boiled crayfish seasoned with dill, often accompanied by schnapps and beer.
Kräftskiva @ ciatonelli
A kräftskiva (crayfish party) is a traditional eating and drinking party celebrated in the end of Summer in Sweden. 🦞
Together with@swedishness.chI organized this small family party last night. A very warm night with lots of flies and the food melted away! 😂
The crayfish (fresh frozen) comes from Vänern, the biggest lake in 🇸🇪. They are cooked with salt and dill. This year they were very small due to the weather in Sweden. But the taste was delicious. 💯
Served with homemade aïoli, different 🇸🇪 crispbreads, salted butter and a Västerbotten cheese pie with Kalix Löjrom (Vendace roe), smetana, chives, red onions and dill. Mathilda made it and it was so tasty. A great combo with the fat cheese and the Vendace Roe.
The Västerbotten pie is also very traditional. I used the recipe from@icasverige. The crust is made of butter, flour and egg. And in the filling lots of Västerbotten cheese, eggs, cream, milk and spices. 😋🧀
Paired with beer and aquavit. We tried the Aquavit tasting kit from Svenska Nubbar. 10 different aquavit to try (5ml each). All very different and so tasty! A very good way to discover different Snaps from all over Sweden. Aquavit is the oldest drink in Sweden, from the 15th century. 😍
Cia Tonelli, visit her instagram
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How to eat Crayfish like a Pro!
1. Suck and slurp: Start by locating where the stomach of the crayfish is. Here, you suck out as much as you can of the delicious broth that the crayfish have been cozying up in.
2. Break off the claws
Now onto the claws. First, break off the "legs" from the crayfish's body. Then, break off the claw from each leg.
3. Crack the claw, If the shell is soft, you can use your teeth; otherwise, use a nutcracker or pliers. Remove the meat from the claws, put it in your mouth, and enjoy. A crayfish knife or the pointed part of the claw can be helpful.
4. Dare the butter: After the claws, it's time for the crayfish butter - something that many people skip. Don't do that, it's one of the most delicious parts of the whole crayfish. Grab the sides of the abdomen and pull off the head.
5. Scrape out the butter: Loosen the shield located just behind the crayfish's eyes and carefully remove the yellow crayfish butter.
6. Last but not least - detach the tail , To finish off, you tackle the largest piece of the crayfish - the tail. Crack open the shell on the tail by breaking off the shell flaps that run along the sides of the tail. Carefully loosen the shell so that the tail remains intact.
If you're planning to host a delightful outdoor gathering with family and friends, why not add an extra touch of fun and excitement with a DIY piñata?
A candy-filled piñata can be a perfect addition to your Swedish Crayfish Party, and the best part is, it's easy to make!
Feasting on crayfish at a Swedish kräftskiva - a beloved tradition in Sweden - sounds straightforward, right? We mean, it's just eating or? Well, this particular tradition can be slippery as trying to catch a wet soap, with a side serving of hilarity and humility.
Marcus Crayfish - A Culinary Treasure from Sweden
We're thrilled to bring back the Marcus Crayfish, a Signalkräfta, a delicacy that carries with it a rich heritage from Väderstad, Sweden. Chosen year after year by us, due to overwhelming positive reviews and their unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability.
Kräftskivan (the crayfish party) is a summertime celebration that is beloved by Scandinavians of all ages, especially in Sweden where it's is a highlight on the Swedish calendar. It is an annual sea food feast full of side dishes, drinks, and joyful songs. Nowadays imported crayfish can be found year round, but few Swedes are prepared to abandon the seasonal tradition of the crayfish party.
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