Svele

Svele is a traditional Norwegian pancake that is particularly popular in the western part of the country, especially in the regions of Møre og Romsdal and Sogn og Fjordane. Unlike thinner, crepe-like pancakes, sveler are thick and fluffy, often compared to American pancakes but with a distinct taste and texture. They are typically made from a batter consisting of eggs, flour, sugar, and milk, with the addition of baking soda and hartshorn (baker's ammonia) as leavening agents. Some recipes also include sour cream or kefir to enhance the flavor and texture.

Ingredients and Preparation

The basic ingredients for sveler include:

• Eggs
• Flour
• Sugar
• Milk
• Baking soda
• Hartshorn (optional)
• Sour cream or kefir (optional)

To prepare sveler, the eggs and sugar are first whisked together until light and fluffy. Then, the dry ingredients (flour and baking soda, and if using, hartshorn) are sifted and gradually added to the egg mixture, alternating with milk (and sour cream or kefir if used) to create a smooth batter. The batter is then left to rest for a short period, allowing the leavening agents to activate, which contributes to the sveler's characteristic thickness and fluffiness.

Cooking sveler involves pouring ladles of batter onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or frying pan. They are cooked until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look dry, then flipped and cooked until golden brown on both sides.

Serving

Sveler are traditionally served warm with various toppings or spreads. The most common accompaniments are butter, sugar, and Norwegian brown cheese (brunost). However, they can also be enjoyed with jam, sour cream, or simply plain. Sveler are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, dessert, or even a light meal.

Cultural Significance

Sveler hold a special place in Norwegian culture, particularly in the west where they are a staple at local gatherings, ferries, and roadside cafes. Their popularity has spread throughout Norway, making them a beloved treat among Norwegians of all ages. The tradition of making and sharing sveler is passed down through generations, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Norwegian home cooking.

See Also

• Norwegian cuisine
• Pancake
• List of Norwegian dishes