FIKA: is a concept, a state of mind, an attitude and an important part of Swedish culture. Many Swedes consider that it is almost essential to make time for fika every day. It means making time for friends and colleagues to share a cup of coffee (or tea) and a little something to eat.

 

 

If you’ve ever been to the American Swedish Institute, odds are, you’ve seen the Fika café a time or two. Fika, the Swedish tradition of spending time with people you love and a bit of nibbles and coffee or tea, is one that I love to indulge in. Granted, I’m very well known for telling people that one of my favourite ways to spend my money is on good food.

I visited the ASI last week, to see their newest exhibition “Paper Dialogues”. Let’s just say, it certainly puts my paper snowflakes to shame. But of course, after looking through the mansion and all of the pieces in the exhibition, a stop at Fika was absolutely necessary.

 

The best thing about Minnesota: Amazing Swedish Food

Minnesota has a very strong sense of Scandinavian culture – most often, you’ll find that many people that live in the state have Norwegian or Swedish heritage. Sometimes even both. Since it opened as such, the American Swedish Institute has been trying to connect those who wish to back to their Swedish culture – with language, dance, art and cooking classes year-round.

Some of the cooking classes even teach you a thing or two about what they serve at Fika. Which, if it means being able to recreate their creamy chicken soup or their famous Swedish meatballs – you can count me in. It’s the body-warming, comfort-based food that gives you a smile every time you take a bite. Not to mention, each dish sure is lovely to look at.

 

Fika’s Swedish Meatballs with potato puree, lingonberries, mustard sauce, dill-infused oil and a pickled cucumber garnish.

 

Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup with Salted Danish Rye

 

Have you ever been to Fika at the American Swedish Institute before? If you have, what did you think?