Smörgåstårta

Smörgåstårta

A traditional Swedish smörgåstårta

Smörgåstårta is a savory cake that is popular in Sweden, Finland, and Estonia. Unlike a traditional sweet cake, smörgåstårta is made with layers of bread and various savory fillings, often resembling a large sandwich. It is typically served cold and is a staple at celebrations and gatherings.

History

The concept of smörgåstårta originated in Sweden in the mid-20th century. It was inspired by the traditional smörgåsbord, a type of buffet meal that includes a variety of hot and cold dishes. The smörgåstårta was created as a way to combine the flavors of a smörgåsbord into a single, visually appealing dish. Over time, it gained popularity in neighboring countries, particularly in Finland, where it is known as "voileipäkakku."

Ingredients and Preparation

A Finnish voileipäkakku

The base of a smörgåstårta is typically made from layers of white or rye bread. The bread is sliced horizontally and layered with a variety of fillings. Common fillings include:

• Mayonnaise or cream cheese
• Seafood such as shrimp, salmon, or tuna
• Cold cuts like ham, turkey, or roast beef
• Vegetables such as cucumber, lettuce, and tomato
• Eggs, often hard-boiled and sliced

The cake is often decorated with additional ingredients such as herbs, sliced vegetables, and lemon slices. The top layer is usually covered with a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese to help the decorations adhere.

Variations

A decorated smörgåstårta

There are many regional and personal variations of smörgåstårta. In Finland, the voileipäkakku might include more fish-based ingredients, reflecting the country's culinary traditions. In Estonia, the dish is known as "võileivatort" and may include local ingredients such as herring or beetroot.

Some variations cater to specific dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or vegan smörgåstårta, which replace meat and fish with plant-based alternatives.

Serving and Occasions

Smörgåstårta is often served at special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and graduations. It is a popular choice for buffets and is appreciated for its ability to serve a large number of people. The cake is typically sliced like a traditional cake, with each slice offering a cross-section of the various layers and fillings.

Related pages

• Smörgåsbord
• Sandwich
• Swedish cuisine
• Finnish cuisine

Smörgåstårta served in an office setting

See also

• List of sandwiches
• List of cakes
• List of Swedish dishes