Korv stroganoff

Lore & Background

Korv stroganoff originated as a budget-friendly variation of beef Stroganoff, first introduced as a school meal in the 1950s, before spreading to households. It has since become a staple of Swedish cuisine, later also spreading to other countries. In Finnish, the dish is called makkarastroganoff.

Reader's Guide

Korv stroganoff holds significance as a practical adaptation of a classic Russian dish, reflecting Swedish culinary resourcefulness. Its introduction as a school meal in the 1950s helped establish it as a household staple, and by 2022 it was Sweden's fifth most popular dish. The recipe varies widely, typically using chopped sausage and onions sautéed with tomato paste and flour, then cooked in a tomato- and dairy-based sauce. Traditional falukorv is common, but any sausage may be used. The sauce can include cream, sour cream, crème fraîche, or even ketchup and milk in student versions. Spices range from simple salt and pepper to paprika, soy sauce, or Italian seasoning. The dish is traditionally served with rice, though pasta, potatoes, bulgur, quinoa, and other grains are also common. Its legacy lies in its adaptability and role as an affordable, comforting meal that has spread beyond Sweden.

Did You Know?

• The dish was Sweden's fifth most popular dish in 2022.
• A poor man's version uses only ketchup and milk for the sauce.