Introduction
Scandinavian cuisine has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, Nordic cuisine is both healthy and delicious. And one of the most popular and Instagram-worthy dishes to come out of this region is the Scandi bowl.
A Scandi bowl is essentially a meal in a bowl. It typically consists of a base of grains or greens, topped with a variety of colorful and flavorful ingredients – think roasted root vegetables, pickled cabbage, smoked salmon, and poached eggs. The beauty of the Scandi bowl is that it’s customizable – you can mix and match ingredients to your liking, and create a unique flavor profile every time.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Scandi bowls and explore the beauty and simplicity of Nordic cuisine.
The Elements of a Scandi Bowl
At its core, a Scandi bowl is all about balance. You want to combine different flavors and textures to create a dish that is satisfying and nourishing. Here are the basic elements of a Scandi bowl:
The Base
The base of a Scandi bowl is typically a grain or a green. Quinoa, brown rice, and farro are all great options for a grain base. For a green base, try using kale, spinach, or arugula.
The Protein
Protein is essential for a filling and satisfying Scandi bowl. Smoked salmon, poached eggs, and grilled chicken are all popular protein choices. Vegetarians can opt for tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas as a protein source.
The Veggies
Adding a variety of colorful and flavorful veggies is what makes a Scandi bowl so visually appealing. Roasted root vegetables, pickled cabbage, and sautéed mushrooms are all great options.
The Sauce
A flavorful sauce can take a Scandi bowl from good to great. Try making a simple vinaigrette with olive oil, lemon juice, and dijon mustard, or whip up a creamy tahini sauce to drizzle over the top.
Tips for Building the Perfect Scandi Bowl
Now that you have a basic understanding of the elements of a Scandi bowl, here are some tips for building a delicious and satisfying dish:
Get Creative with Your Base
Try swapping out your usual brown rice or quinoa for something a little more unusual, like black rice or freekeh. And don’t be afraid to mix and match – try combining two different grains or greens for a more interesting texture.
Balance Your Flavors
When choosing your ingredients, think about balancing sweet, savory, and acidic flavors. For example, if you’re using sweet roasted root vegetables, balance them out with something acidic like pickled red onions.
Add Texture
Texture is key when it comes to building a satisfying Scandi bowl. Choose ingredients with varying textures – for example, crispy roasted chickpeas, creamy avocado, and crunchy toasted nuts.
Experiment with Different Sauces
Sauces can totally transform a Scandi bowl. Try a spicy harissa sauce for an added kick, or a creamy cashew sauce for a decadent twist.
