An Ancient Norse Mythology Feast
BY Alison Wiebe
Embark on a culinary adventure to Vanaheim by preparing a decadent feast inspired by Norse Mythology. Each recipe is created in honour of the Vanir gods!
Prepare a complete feast, or try a few of your favourite recipes inspired by Vanaheim, one of the Nine Realms of Ancient Norse mythology, and the gods that inhabit it. Travelling up the winding branches of Yggdrasil, the mighty world tree, we arrive at the mystical realm of Vanaheim. This resplendent realm of lush, bountiful fields, shining lakes, and verdant forests is home to the Vanir, ancient gods of nature and fertility. In the spirit of community and kinship, we set out to honour the Vanir deities by preparing a lavish feast. With each dish, we celebrate the deep connections between food, culture, and the natural world.
Raise a Glass and Hail the Vanir with a Mead Chamomile Elixir
In this Vanaheim inspired cocktail, blend together sweet mead with earthy botanicals and the delicate aroma of chamomile flowers. So important was mead to the ancient Norse culture that gods and mortals alike would have raised a horn of mead together in frith and kinship. The bonds created over the shared horn would have had lasting impact in ancient Norse society.
Frey’s Potato Rolls with Honey Poppyseed Butter
As the god of fertility, prosperity, and peace, Frey presided over some of the most important areas in a person’s life. Offerings were given to seek his favour for good fortune and abundance. Shape soft potato rolls like the wheat sheaves grown in the golden fields of Vanaheim. Then, slather them with a sweet honey poppyseed whipped butter.
Nerthus’ Ale Braised Beef Shanks with Cauliflower Leek Purée
Revered as an earth goddess, Nerthus was worshipped with an annual procession that included feasting, celebration, and the sacrifice of livestock. Slow braised beef shanks with ale served with a creamy cauliflower leek purée are the perfect culinary tribute to this mysterious, ancient goddess. Rich and hearty beef shanks pay homage to her ancient rites of sacrifice while the cauliflower leek purée represents the agricultural abundance Nerthus bestows upon the land. Pull back the veil and reveal the bountiful blessings of this ancient earth goddess.
Njord’s Salt Baked Fish with Mustard Tarragon Sauce
Njord’s presence is keenly felt in the rolling waves. He navigates the tempestuous waters like a seasoned sailor and guides the voyages of men with a gentle unwavering hand. The salt crust forms a protective barrier which locks in moisture and infuses the fish with the delicate aroma of fresh herbs. After baking, crack open the crust to reveal succulent, perfectly cooked fish. This salt baked fish recipe is served with a tangy mustard tarragon sauce.
Freyja’s Mead Sabayon with Strawberries and Hazelnut Meringues
Freyja’s enchanting allure, passion, and grace captivate the hearts of gods and mortals alike. But beneath her ethereal beauty lies the spirit of a warrior. With her ineffable charm, she embodies the delicate dance between love and war. This sweet mead infused custard is whipped to perfection. Pair it with sweet strawberries and toasty, nutty hazelnut meringues, for a balanced blend of flavours and textures.
