How to open a can of surströmming - without making a mess
A surströmming-hack for newbies is to put the can in the freezer for a few minutes before opening it. This method reduces the smell a bit.
If you live without nearby neighbors, it can be a good idea to open the can outside. Although if you live in an apartment, we recommend opening the can in the kitchen sink.
Tilt the can 45 degrees and put the can opener at the top of the can where you now have a pocket of air inside the can. Opening the can with this technique prevents splashing.
When the can is open, pour out all of the liquid from the can into the kitchen sink and rinse it away. Some people prefer to rinse the fish as well and also the inside of the can.
Put the can on a plate and bring it to the table. For whole fishes, you need to gut them. Filleted fishes are much easier to eat, but they do not contain any roe.
Enjoy the surströmming wrapped in buttered tunnbröd (a sweetened flatbread). We highly recommend serving the dish with freshly boiled sliced almond potatoes with fresh dill, diced onion, and sour cream for the best experience.
If you live without nearby neighbors, it can be a good idea to open the can outside. Although if you live in an apartment, we recommend opening the can in the kitchen sink.
Tilt the can 45 degrees and put the can opener at the top of the can where you now have a pocket of air inside the can. Opening the can with this technique prevents splashing.
When the can is open, pour out all of the liquid from the can into the kitchen sink and rinse it away. Some people prefer to rinse the fish as well and also the inside of the can.
Put the can on a plate and bring it to the table. For whole fishes, you need to gut them. Filleted fishes are much easier to eat, but they do not contain any roe.
Enjoy the surströmming wrapped in buttered tunnbröd (a sweetened flatbread). We highly recommend serving the dish with freshly boiled sliced almond potatoes with fresh dill, diced onion, and sour cream for the best experience.
Photo: Hebe Frukt & Grönt AB
