Beat the chill with Hernekeitto. Discover Swedish soup that's a hit in frosty Scandinavia

I often reiterate that each country has its own culinary traditions. Don't believe me? Just consider the vast differences in our recent Christmas celebrations. It's during these times that we truly appreciate the diversity of our world—and that's a good thing!

The foundations of these culinary traditions tend to lie in history, tradition, the availability of regional produce, and sometimes even the climate. Studies have shown that people living in tropical regions have always consumed more spices (to protect against infections) than communities in relatively milder climates. Following this logic, residents of colder countries - for example, Sweden - should prepare food that provides warmth. The Hernekeitto soup is one such offering.

Hernekeitto, a traditional Swedish pea soup, is a favorite throughout Scandinavia. This dish is a perfect defense against the cold weather - that's exactly why I'm recommending it. Of course, it's not just about the warmth—hernekeitto is delightful in its taste as well. You'll know when you try it for yourself!

Ingredients:

• 2 onions,
• 3 cloves of garlic,
• 14 oz of peas,
• 7 oz of smoked boneless bacon,
• Clarified butter,
• 2 carrots,
• 4 potatoes,
• 10.5 oz of sausage,
• Sour cream,
• Parsley,
• Salt and pepper,
• A few grains of allspice,
• A few bay leaves.

Preparation:

1. Finely chop the onion and garlic, and slice the smoked bacon. Then, lightly sauté these ingredients in a small amount of clarified butter in a thick-bottomed pot.
2. Add the peas, bay leaves, and allspice to the pot. Fill it further with about 2 quarts of water.
3. Let this concoction cook for around 35 minutes. During this period, peel and slice your carrots into semi-circles, and dice the sausage and potatoes.
4. Add the vegetables to the soup and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes. Finally, add the sausage.
5. Season the soup with marjoram, salt, and pepper. Stir in some sour cream and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy your meal!