Kroppkaka –

Kroppkaka is a traditional Swedish dish that’s similar to a potato dumpling, often filled with pork or bacon. It’s a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for colder months. Here’s a classic recipe for you!

Kroppkaka Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and boiled (preferably starchy potatoes like Russets)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (you may need a bit more depending on the consistency)
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup (75g) butter, melted (for the dough and serving)
• 1/2 lb (225g) salted pork belly or bacon, diced
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cook them in a pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Mash the potatoes: Mash the boiled potatoes thoroughly until smooth. Let them cool for a few minutes to avoid making the dough too sticky.
3. Make the dough: In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms. It should be soft but not too sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Prepare the filling: In a skillet, melt some butter and sauté the diced salted pork belly or bacon (and onion, if using) until crispy and golden. Set aside.
5. Form the kroppkaka: Divide the potato dough into equal portions, about 8-10 balls. Flatten each ball into a disc and place a spoonful of the bacon-onion mixture in the center. Gently fold the dough around the filling and seal it, forming a round dumpling.
6. Boil the kroppkaka: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Let them cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they rise to the surface. Once they float, they are done.
7. Serve: Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate. Drizzle with melted butter and, if you like, serve with lingonberry jam or a creamy sauce on the side.

Tips:

• If you want a lighter version, you can use half flour and half potato flour for a softer dough.
• Kroppkaka is often served with lingonberry jam, which provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

Enjoy your Swedish Kroppkaka! It’s a great way to enjoy hearty comfort food with a unique flavor profile.