Toast Skagen

Dish information

Toast Skagen is a celebrated Swedish appetizer that evokes the essence of coastal life and the bounty of the sea. Its creation is attributed to Swedish celebrity chef Tore Wretman in the 1950s, who named it after the Danish fishing port of Skagen, known for its vibrant fishing industry and culinary scene. Wretman aimed to elevate simple ingredients into an elegant dish. The foundation is typically a thick slice of toasted white bread, often butter-fried to a golden crispness, providing a robust base. The star of the dish is the warm mixture of finely chopped shrimp, typically small pink shrimp found in the chilly waters of the North Atlantic, combined with mayonnaise, crème fraîche or sour cream, finely chopped red onion or dill, and lemon juice for brightness. Sometimes, a touch of dill is mixed in for freshness. The mixture is gently warmed and piled high on the toast, often crowned with a spoonful of glistening fish roe (like vendace roe or salmon caviar) and a sprig of dill. Toast Skagen represents a sophisticated yet accessible taste of Swedish seafood, embodying a blend of classic French influences and local ingredients, making it a beloved item on restaurant menus across Sweden and beyond.

Timeline

• 1955

  Chef Tore Wretman is credited with creating and popularizing Toast Skagen at his restaurant Riche in Stockholm.

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  1960s

  The dish quickly gained popularity across Sweden, becoming a staple appetizer in many restaurants.

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  2000s

  Toast Skagen continues to be a beloved and frequently ordered appetizer in Swedish culinary establishments.