Swedish Snaps is considered a national drink in Sweden and is enjoyed by many for its unique flavour profile and its ability to warm the body and soul. Particularly popular on midsummer day, at Christmas time and easter but is also regularly consumed on any other celebrations. Snaps are superb with dishes such as pickled herring, boiled potatoes, fish dishes and smoked meats. Give Swedish Snaps a try and see which one will be your personal favourite.
Swedish Snaps, or brännvin, is a type of strong, clear spirit that is made from potatoes and is usually flavoured with caraway, anise, or other herbs and spices. Quick and easy recipes only take a couple of days and more advanced a couple of weeks. Here are two of our favourite easy recipes for you to try at home.
Kryddsnaps
This easy recipe is flavoured with cumin, fennel and anise. Great with fish dishes, smoked meats, cold cuts or enjoyed on its own. Kryddsnaps should be served ice cold, preferably as a part of the meal. This recipe takes 2-4 days to make.
You need:
37 cl of vodka
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
½ teaspoon anise seeds
½ teaspoon powdered sugar
How you make it:
Add vodka, spices and sugar to a glass jar or a bottle.
Let sit at room temperature for 2-4 days.
After 2-4 days, strain the vodka and add it to a bottle. Place the bottle in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Serve ice cold in snaps glasses or shot glasses.
Sherry Besk
"Besk" translates to bitter and is a good explanation of the flavour profile. This easy recipe has flavours of wormwood, Sherry, cumin and the sweetness of honey. Great with fish dishes, smoked meats, and cold cuts, on its own or as a digestive. Sherry Besk should be served ice cold, preferably as a part of the meal. This recipe takes 2-4 weeks to make.
You need:
70 cl vodka
5 cl dry sherry
2 sprigs of fresh wormwood (or 2 teaspoons dried)
1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds
1 teaspoon honey
How you make it:
Add vodka, spices and honey to a glass jar or a bottle.
Let sit preferably in a sunny place for 2-4 weeks.
After 2-4 weeks, strain the vodka and add it to a bottle. Place the bottle in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Serve ice-cold in snaps glasses or shot glasses.
Enjoy and Skål!
