Almond Cake

 

We have Scandinavian roots in our family, and this time of year, I especially enjoy reflecting about our ancestors years ago in Sweden.  I often will decorate using straw ornaments, dala horses, hearts, candles, and seasonal greenery, as a reminder of our heritage.   Each of us come from different backgrounds, what traditions do you celebrate with your family at Christmas?

 

 

The Dala Horse

The Dala Horse (Swedish: Dalahast) is a traditional carved and painted wooden statue of a horse originating from the Swedish province of Dalarna. Years ago, the horse was mostly used as a toy for children.  Today, it is more known as a symbol of the country of Sweden.

 Swedish Traditions

The biggest and longest holiday of the year is Christmas in Sweden.  It begins with the lighting of the candle the first Sunday of Advent (first Sunday in December) and continues for each Sunday leading up to Christmas.  By tradition, Swedes are known to attend church in the very early hours of Christmas morning.  The Swedish Christmas tree is not brought into the home until only a day or two before Christmas.  It is decorated with wrapped candies, glass bulbs, straw trinkets, and lights or candles.

On December 13th, St. Lucia Day, A Lucia (Queen of Light) is chosen from each home.   She is dressed in a white gown with a crown of candles in her hair (think of Kirsten the American Doll here).  She brings coffee, rolls, ginger biscuits and occasionally “glogg” (a mulled wine).  As legend believes, this is the longest night of the year, and a time when man needs extra nourishment.  The girls wear glitter in their hair and the boys wear tall paper cone hats decorated with stars.  While delivering the delicious food, traditional Lucia carols are sung.  .

Other Swedish terminology at Christmas:

Smorgasbord: Dishes such as ham, jellied pigs feet, and lutfisk enjoyed on Christmas Eve

Lutfisk: fish soaked in lye to make it soft and palatable

 

 

 

 

 

 

This almond cake pan and dala horse dish were given to me last year as a gift.  This must explain my need for baking (and consuming foods) with almond flavoring and butter.