Röda Ulven, meaning “The Red Wolf” in Swedish, was established in 1946 when the company’s first brand was naturally named “Gösta Hannells Surströmming.” Röda Ulven soon became synonymous with fermented herring with its eye-catching packaging and is Sweden’s leading brand today. The brand has taken its name from Ulvön, also known as Wolf Island, which is seen to be the Mecca of Swedish surströmming. The word “Röda” (red) comes from that the island completely glows in red thanks to the beautiful red Rapakivi granite.
Product Description
This famous Swedish delicacy is made of fermented Baltic sea herring. Röda Ulven Surströmming is a natural product that only consists of freshly caught herring, salt and water. The can contains 440 grams total weight, with 300 grams drained weight. Each tin includes 6-8 fermented herrings. Surströmming that is not filleted have a chance of containing roe, and that is considered a delicacy among many connoisseurs.
Country of Origin: Sweden
Ingredients: Herring, salt, water
What is Surströmming?
Surströmming is a traditional Swedish dish from northern Sweden that arose during the 16th century when Sweden had a salt shortage. Small Baltic herring are caught in the spring, salted and left to ferment at leisure before being stuffed in a tin about a month before it hits the tables and shops. The fermentation process continues in the can – ‘souring’ as the Swedes refer to it – and results in a bulging tin of fermented herring. The aroma is pungent, and the taste is rounded yet piquant with a distinct acidity.
The Surströmming Challenge
The surströmming fish challenge has gained popularity online, especially on social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Several videos have gone viral and feature a person or people eating this Swedish food, often depicting over-the-top reactions to the smell. However, most people aren’t eating it the traditional way. Opening a can without preparing the right sides—like bread, potatoes, butter, and onions—can lead to an overpowering experience that doesn’t do this Swedish delicacy justice.
In an unforgettable moment on Good Mythical More, YouTubers Rhett and Link, joined by PewDiePie, opened a can of surströmming and immediately faced the intense smell and unexpected spray from the can. PewDiePie, real name Felix Kjellberg, who is Swedish, joked about how the dish is typically eaten during traditional celebrations, usually with plenty of drinks to lighten the mood.
Important Storage Instructions
Surströmming we have fermented in cans. It is not possible to save at room temperature. Fermentation proceeds, is also located very dangerous that can explode. Please store this item unopened in the refrigerator at all times. This is a CHILLED ITEM – do not store in a cupboard.
How to Open and Prepare
Surströmming cans can be pressurized, so it’s advisable to open them under water or in a sink to manage any potential splattering. As the tin is pressurised, open the surströmming in a basin of water. This technique has the added benefit of rinsing the filets right away which is a step you should always complete before eating the fish. Be cautious when opening the can, as the pressure can cause surströmming juice to spray. If the contents are bounced such as clothes, you can not get rid of that nasty smell completely. In addition, when opening the can in the room, a few days because the smell remains, sure to opening the can and from covered with a plastic bag in the outdoor location is not popular.
If you have whole surströmming fish, you’ll need to gut them before serving by removing the bones and entrails. Filleted surströmming is easier to eat but doesn’t contain roe—a delicacy prized by some enthusiasts. Gutting ensures a milder taste and allows the fish’s texture to be enjoyed fully.
How to Eat Surströmming Properly
The best way to eat surströmming is not straight from the can but with traditional Swedish accompaniments. For the best experience, serve surströmming wrapped in buttered tunnbröd, a traditional Swedish flatbread with a slight sweetness. Wash it, gut it, and wrap it in buttered tunnbröd with slices of almond potatoes and diced onion. Small pieces should be placed on a Swedish flat bread called tunnbröd alongside chunks of boiled potato, crème fraîche, diced red onion, and fresh herbs like dill or chives.
Traditional accompaniments to balance its strong flavor include:
- Boiled potatoes (almond potatoes are traditional)
- Tunnbröd (Swedish flatbread)
- Sour cream or crème fraîche
- Diced onions
- Fresh dill or chives
- Butter
Drinks such as beer and schnapps are traditionally used to chase each bite not only because they complement the fish’s flavors but also because surströmming is seasonal and is widely eaten at celebratory parties called surströmmingsskiva. Accompany with beer, snaps and lots of friends. A shot of vodka or aquavit enhances the experience.
The Taste Experience
Despite the pungent aroma, surströmming is often described as tasting much milder than it smells. That being said, it still boasts strong notes of salt, acid, and umami. Enthusiasts describe the taste as rich umami. Upon tasting, you encounter a sharp sourness from the lactic acid produced during fermentation, balanced by a subtle brininess and an underlying sweetness that emerges as the fish mellows. The flavor profile is complex—initially bracing, yet layered with hints of salt, tang, and a mild umami depth.
Nutritional Information
Per 100g serving:
- Energy: 82-93 kcal (334-389 kJ)
- Protein: 12-14 grams
- Fat: 3.9-4.5 grams (of which saturated fat 1.1 grams)
- Carbohydrates: 0.73 grams (of which sugar 0.73 grams)
- Salt: 7-8.8 grams
Surströmming is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it a filling option. It is high in essential minerals such as iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to thyroid function and cardiovascular health. It is also a good source of vitamin D, essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, and vitamin B12, crucial for brain function and creating new blood cells. The fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of probiotics, which may aid in gut health and overall digestion.
Cultural Significance
Eating surströmming is a tradition and a social activity. It’s also an excuse to throw a fermented herring party, called ‘surströmmingsskiva’. The Swedish Surströmming Premiere, celebrated on the third Thursday of August, marks the release of the new herring catch and brings together enthusiasts. Surströmming is more than just a meal—it’s a Swedish culinary adventure cherished for centuries.
Tips for First-Time Tasters
It’s best to eat surströmming outdoors or in a well-ventilated area due to its strong odor. For first-timers, eating outdoors is highly recommended! Surströmming is a strong-tasting food that may not be to everyone’s taste. If you have never had it before, it might be a good idea to try a small piece first to see if you like it. Over-the-top reactions to the smell of surströmming aren’t necessarily dramatized; the truth is, it does stink. Enjoy the hearty, savory goodness of Röda Ulven’s surströmming, a taste of Sweden that invites you to join a community of passionate enthusiasts in celebrating tradition and taste.
Serving Size
Typically, one can of surströmming contains around 6-8 whole herrings, which is usually enough for 2-3 people. If you’re planning a traditional surströmming meal, one can should suffice per small group. Be sure to have plenty of sides like potatoes and tunnbröd for the best experience.
