Blåbärssoppa, or blueberry soup, is a comforting classic from the heart of the Nordic countries. This dish, simple in its making, blends bilberries with sugar, water, and a bit of starch to create something that’s both tasty and soothing. Whether you prefer it warm to shake off the chill or cold as a refreshing treat, Blåbärssoppa is versatile and welcoming.
A Closer Look at Blåbärssoppa
At its heart, Blåbärssoppa is about bringing together simple, natural ingredients. It uses bilberries, similar to blueberries but smaller and with a richer taste, which grow wild across Scandinavia. This berry gives the soup a distinct flavor and color, making it a favorite among many.
Tracing back to the early 20th century in Sweden, Blåbärssoppa’s popularity isn’t new. It’s known for giving a quick energy boost and helping with mild stomach issues, thanks to the bilberries. This made it a natural choice for skiers and others needing a quick, nutritious pick-me-up, like those in the Vasaloppet, a long ski race where the soup is famously served.
Today, finding Blåbärssoppa is easy. It comes ready to drink, in powder form to mix with water, or can be made from scratch using fresh bilberries, sugar, and water. This accessibility means anyone can try this piece of Nordic tradition, whether at home or on the go.
How to Make Blåbärssoppa: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making Blåbärssoppa, the traditional Nordic blueberry soup, is straightforward and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s a simple guide to preparing this comforting dish at home:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh bilberries or blueberries (frozen can also work)
- 4 cups of water
- ½ cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of potato starch (cornstarch can be a substitute)
- Cold water to mix with the starch
- Lemon juice (optional, to taste)
Instructions:
Prepare the Berries: If you’re using fresh berries, wash them thoroughly. For frozen berries, allow them to thaw.
Cook the Berries: In a large pot, combine the berries and 4 cups of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Add Sugar: Once the berries have softened and the mixture is simmering, add the sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, mix the potato starch with enough cold water to make a smooth paste.
Slowly pour the starch mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly. Continue to cook and stir until the soup thickens slightly, which should take about a minute or two.
Final Touches: If desired, add a few drops of lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
For a smoother soup, you can blend the mixture or pass it through a sieve to remove the berry skins.
Cool and Serve: Let the soup cool down a bit if serving warm. For a cold version, allow it to cool completely at room temperature before chilling it in the refrigerator.
Serve the Blåbärssoppa in bowls or cups, depending on your preference.
Tips:
Serving: Blåbärssoppa can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat.
Storage: You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade Blåbärssoppa, a taste of Nordic tradition right in your home!