Vietnam - Sweden Enhance Mutual Understanding Through Culinary Exchanges

"Taste Sweden - Qua chieu" introduces Swedish "Mellanmål." Similar to Vietnamese "Qua chieu" (afternoon snacks), Mellanmål is a light meal enjoyed between main courses, typically in the afternoon or midday. These delightful bites provide nourishment and help maintain focus throughout the day. While the specific dishes may vary, both concepts emphasize the importance of taking breaks and relishing light bites during the day.

At the event, renowned Swedish chef Erik Videgård collaborated with Nguyen Dang Linh, head chef at Hanoi Daewoo Hotel, to prepare beverages and dishes that represent a combination of Vietnamese and Swedish culinary practices and ingredients.

Swedish Ambassador to Hanoi Ann Måwe (second from right), chef Erik Videgård (second from left) took photos with guests at the event. (Photo: HA)

According to chef Erik Videgård, he worked with the Vietnamese team via online platforms for two months to prepare for the event. "Vietnamese and Swedish cuisine have more differences than similarities. We use a variety of tasty spices and peppers, while Vietnamese dishes aim for a pleasant, light taste, with lots of fresh herbs. Therefore, the most difficult stage is coming up with ideas of how to combine the two cuisines while still maintaining the harmonious taste. For example, we have Vietnamese banh mi stuffed with Swedish meatballs and beetroot salad; Swedish sausage wrapped in Vietnamese pancake; and Swedish hamburger made of Vietnamese ingredients."

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

While preparing veal hamburger at the event's open kitchen, chef Nguyen Dang Linh said to the press: "This is the first time the dish is introduced to Vietnamese diners. The hamburger is made with Swedish recipe and culinary practices, and ingredients from Vietnam. We tried to look for and combine many ingredients and spices that can be found in Vietnam to create a special flavor. Chef Erik Videgård was pleased with the dishes right on the first try because they all delivered the Vietnamese-Swedish combination as we expected."

As for Tran Nguyen Trang Nhung (6th grade student, Yen Hoa Secondary School, Hanoi), this is her first time to try Sweden cuisine. "All these dishes are new to me. I like the hamburger the most because of its flavorful taste. I also gained some knowledge about Swedish culture through the event's quizzes and met some new friends."

Guests enjoy special dishes at the event. (Photo: HA)

In her remark, the Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam, Ann Måwe, stressed that the event, held in commemoration of the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sweden and Vietnam (1969 – 2024), is a testament to the robust diplomatic relations between the two nations and their mutual appreciation for gastronomy and cultural exchange.

She said, "The 'Taste of Sweden – Qua chieu' event signifies a significant milestone in the enduring friendship between Sweden and Vietnam. Through the celebration of culinary traditions, we deepen our cultural understanding and forge stronger bonds. I am delighted to witness the fusion of Swedish and Vietnamese flavors, and I believe this event will leave a lasting impression on all participants, fostering a deeper appreciation for our shared culture and heritage."

On this occasion, the Embassy of Sweden to Vietnam reaffirms its strong commitment to fostering strong diplomatic relations between Sweden and Vietnam. Through various cultural events and promotion initiatives in 2024, the embassy aims to promote mutual understanding, cooperation, and friendship between the two nations.

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