Nordic Diet Benefits
Scandi style has been known for setting a few trends in it’s time. Warming Hygge interiors, refreshing Frilufsliv outdoor living and the perfectly balanced, Lagom to name a few. So when it comes to foodie trends, the Nordic nation have a few food rules of their own to swear by.
Move over Mediterranean diet. The increasingly popular Nordic Diet consists of foods considered traditional in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
Much like the Med Diet, the Nordic version has been linked to decreased risk in cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and hyped as a great diet for weight loss.
Fill your plate with plenty of berries and fruits; fatty fish (go for herring, mackerel and salmon); lean fish (the likes of cod, haddock and halibut); an abundance of veggies (cabbage, brussel sprouts and root vegetables) plus whole-grain cereals such as barley, oats and rye.
This predominantly plant-based diet represents the Nordic principle of sustainability, focusing on local, fresh produce and reducing meat consumption. Great for nutrition, and a nice nod to the environment too.
When it comes to your grocery hit-list, the Nordic diet showcases whatever is in season. So broccoli, cabbage and seasonal greens are a pocket-friendly pick if you’re trying the Nordic way.
Fish doesn’t have to be fresh – experiment with tinned salmon, mackerel or frozen fillets. The same goes for berries – grab a colourful mix of frozen raspberries, blueberries and forest fruits for a snip of the price if you’re feeling the pinch.
Your Nordic Diet - Day On A Plate
Breakfast To Boost
Breakfast scandi-style generally includes dry fruits, grains, berries and fermented dairy products such as skyr or kefir. In winter, a warming breakfast might be porridge oats topped with fresh fruits.
Light Lunch
Lunch is usually light and includes rye bread, salads, pickles, herrings and eggs (pickled if you like ’em that way). There are plenty of vegetables, with a focus on root veggies and earthy flavors, including mushrooms. Throw in plenty of wild herbs for flavour.
Something Fishy
For dinner, fish with a healthy crop of vegetables, often flavoured with a rich umami paste.
Have you tried Nordic style dining? Share your recipes with us!
