Traditional Swedish Silltårta Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 1/2 cups white sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup herring, finely chopped
1/2 cup pickled gherkins, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 cup red onions, finely chopped
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter, for greasing

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter.
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until the batter is smooth.
Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, mix together the herring, pickled gherkins, dill, parsley, red onions, sour cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. This is your filling.
Spread the herring filling evenly over the cake batter in the pan, then cover with the remaining batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Once the cake is completely cool, remove it from the pan. Slice and serve.

Tools for making

Mixing bowls - You'll need two large mixing bowls for preparing the batter and the herring filling.
Whisk - A whisk will be handy for combining the dry ingredients and mixing the batter.
Electric mixer - An electric mixer or stand mixer will make it easier to cream the butter and sugar together.
Measuring cups and spoons - You'll need these to accurately measure the flour, sugar, milk, and other ingredients.
9-inch springform pan - This type of pan with a removable bottom is ideal for baking the cake.
Spatula - A spatula will help you spread the batter and herring filling evenly.
Wire rack - You'll need a wire rack to cool the cake after baking.
Toothpick - Use a toothpick to check if the cake is fully baked by inserting it into the center.

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version.
Replace the herring with smoked salmon for a different flavor.
Try a different type of fish, such as trout or mackerel, in place of herring.
Add grated cheese, such as Gruyere or cheddar, to the filling mixture for a cheesy twist.
Include sliced boiled eggs in the filling for added richness.
For a vegetarian version, omit the fish and replace it with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling, such as tarragon, basil, or paprika, to customize the flavor profile.
Add a layer of thinly sliced cucumbers on top of the filling for a refreshing crunch.
Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraiche for a tangier taste.
Use a different type of crust, such as a cornmeal crust or a cracker crust, for added texture.

Recipe overview

Welcome to this delightful recipe for Silltårta, a unique and flavorful dish originating from Sweden. Silltårta, or herring cake, is a savory cake traditionally layered with pickled herring, fresh herbs, and a creamy filling. This cake is a wonderful fusion of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for special occasions or as a surprising addition to your regular meal rotation. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of creating your very own Silltårta at home. You will start by preparing a basic vanilla cake, then create a delicious filling using herring, pickled gherkins, fresh herbs, and a touch of mustard. The cake is then baked until golden and fragrant, offering a delightful contrast between the sweet cake and the tangy, savory filling. Although it may sound unusual, this dish is a true taste sensation and a fun way to experience a traditional Swedish recipe. So roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let's embark on a culinary adventure to make a fantastic Silltårta!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of fish? - Yes, you can use a different type of fish if you prefer. However, herring is traditionally used in Silltårta for its distinct flavor.
Can I omit the pickled gherkins? - Yes, you can omit the pickled gherkins if you don't like them or if you don't have them on hand. It will alter the taste slightly, but the cake will still be delicious.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? - While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs if that's what you have available. Just remember to adjust the amounts as dried herbs are more potent.
Can I make this cake in advance? - Yes, you can make the cake in advance. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before serving. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze the cake? - Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt? - Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt if desired. The texture and taste may vary slightly, but it will still work well in the recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowls - These are essential for combining ingredients and mixing the batter.
Whisk - Use a whisk to beat the eggs, incorporate ingredients, and ensure a smooth batter.
Measuring cups and spoons - Accurate measurements are crucial for baking, so use these to measure ingredients precisely.
Rubber spatula - A rubber spatula is handy for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
9-inch springform pan - This type of pan is ideal for shaping and easily removing the cake without damaging the delicate layers.
Wire rack - Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack to promote even cooling and prevent sogginess.
Toothpick - Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Cake slicer or knife - For slicing the cake into servings.

Origin stories

Silltårta, a Swedish delicacy, hails from the picturesque islands of the Swedish archipelago. This unusual cake is a staple during midsummer celebrations and has a unique combination of sweet and savory elements, akin to the contrasting landscapes of Sweden. The herring, pickled gherkins, dill, and onions represent the savory flavors of traditional Swedish cuisine, while the cake batter embodies the sweet nature of a dessert. The layered structure of the cake is reminiscent of the stratified geological formations of the Swedish archipelago. This dish is a testament to the inventiveness of Swedish cuisine, illustrating how contrasting flavors can harmonize beautifully in a single dish. It's a true embodiment of the spirit of Swedish midsummer, where tradition and innovation meet.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.