Strengthening mutual understanding through Swedish - Vietnamese culinary exchange

On April 13, in Hanoi, the Embassy of Sweden in Vietnam organized the culinary event "Swedish Flavors - Afternoon Treats". Here, participants enjoyed snacks created from the combination of Vietnamese and Swedish cuisine.

"Taste of Sweden - Afternoon Snacks" introduces Swedish dishes called Mellanmål. Similar to afternoon snacks, Mellanmål is a light meal eaten between main meals, usually in the afternoon or at noon. Afternoon snacks and Mellanmål both provide a moment of rest, providing nutrition, thereby maintaining focus throughout a long working day.

At the event, famous Swedish chef Erik Videgard collaborated with head chef of Daewoo Hotel ( Hanoi ), Mr. Nguyen Dang Linh, to prepare attractive drinks and dishes combining Vietnamese and Swedish cooking styles and ingredients.

Swedish Ambassador to Hanoi Ann Måwe (second from right), chef Erik Videgård (second from left) take a souvenir photo with guests at the event. (Photo: Hong Anh)

"To prepare for the event, we worked together via online platforms for 2 months. Vietnamese and Swedish cuisines have many differences. We use a lot of spices and strong pepper, while Vietnamese dishes tend to have a harmonious, light taste, using a lot of fresh herbs. Therefore, the most difficult part is coming up with ideas: how to combine the dishes of the two countries while still ensuring harmony and deliciousness. For example, we combined Vietnamese bread with Swedish meatballs and beetroot salad; Swedish veal sausage with banh xeo crust; or Swedish hamburgers made entirely from Vietnamese ingredients," said Mr. Erik Videgård.

High school students in Hanoi enjoy hamburgers at the event. (Photo: Hong Anh)

Directly making the veal hamburger, chef Nguyen Dang Linh said: "This is the first time this dish has been introduced to Vietnamese diners. The dish is created from Swedish recipes and processing methods and Vietnamese ingredients. We have tried to find and combine many ingredients and spices that can be purchased in Vietnam to create a special flavor for the dish. From the first time he tasted it, Erik Videgard was satisfied because the dishes all expressed the combination of Vietnam - Sweden as intended."

According to Tran Nguyen Trang Nhung (6th grade student, Yen Hoa Secondary School, Hanoi), this is the first time she has enjoyed Swedish food: "I feel that all the dishes are new. Among them, I like the veal hamburger the most because of its delicious flavor. At the event, I also learned about Swedish culture through quizzes and met many new friends."

Diners enjoy food at the event. (Photo: Hong Anh)

Speaking at the event, Ms. Ann Måwe, Ambassador of Sweden to Vietnam, said: "The event "Swedish Flavors - Afternoon Treats" is held on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of Vietnam - Sweden diplomatic relations, marking an important milestone in the lasting friendship between the two countries. By honoring culinary traditions, we enhance mutual understanding of culture and create stronger bonds. I am delighted to witness the combination of Swedish and Vietnamese flavors, and believe that the event will bring a deeper understanding of the culture and heritage of the two countries."

On this occasion, the Embassy of Sweden in Hanoi pledges to continue promoting diplomatic relations between Sweden and Vietnam. Through promotional initiatives and cultural events organized in 2024, the embassy wishes to contribute to promoting understanding, cooperation and friendship between the two countries.

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On the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Sweden, Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam Ann Måwe wrote an article about the traditional friendship and close ties between the two countries.

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Source: https://thoidai.com.vn/tang-cuong-hieu-biet-lan-nhau-qua-giao-luu-am-thuc-thuy-dien-viet-nam-198821.html