Jansson's Temptation (Janssons frestelse)

Jansson’s Temptation (Janssons frestelse in Swedish) is one of Sweden’s most loved dishes. It is warm, soft, and creamy — a perfect comfort food for cold days. It is also a big part of Swedish holiday meals, especially Christmas.

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 A Story From the Past

No one knows exactly where the name “Jansson’s Temptation” comes from. One popular story says it was named after a Swedish opera singer from the 1800s called Per Janzon, who loved good food and drink. Another story says the name was created in the 1920s by a clever hostess who wanted to make a simple potato dish sound fancy and tempting.

Today, the name is part of Swedish culture, and the dish is famous across the country.

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 What Is Jansson’s Temptation?

Jansson’s Temptation is a kind of potato casserole. It is made with:

• Thinly sliced potatoes

• Soft, cooked onions

• Swedish “ansjovis” (not the same as anchovies!)

• Cream

• Butter

• And breadcrumbs on top

It is baked in the oven until the top is crispy and golden, and the inside is soft and creamy. The taste is rich, salty, and a little sweet because of the Swedish-style pickled fish.

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 A Dish for Special Times

Swedish people often eat Jansson’s Temptation at Christmas, on the big holiday table called the Julbord. It sits next to other traditional foods like:

• Meatballs

• Pickled herring

• Ham

• Boiled potatoes

But it is also popular at Easter, Midsummer, or even for a cozy family dinner in winter. Some people call it the Swedish lasagna, but with fish instead of meat!

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A Simple Recipe to Try at Home

You can try this creamy and comforting dish yourself. Here is a simple version:

Ingredients:

• 6 medium potatoes

• 1 large onion

• 1 can of Swedish ansjovis (or mild anchovies)

• 300 ml cream

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).

2. Peel and cut the potatoes into thin strips.

3. Slice the onion and cook it gently in butter.

4. In a baking dish, make layers of:

   • Potatoes

   • Cooked onions

   • Pieces of ansjovis

   • Repeat until full.

5. Pour the cream over the top.

6. Add breadcrumbs and small pieces of butter.

7. Bake for 45–60 minutes until golden on top.

8. Let it cool a little before serving.

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Did You Know?

• In Sweden, “ansjovis” is made from sprats, not anchovies, and is pickled with sugar and spices.

• The word “frestelse” means temptation — a perfect name for a dish so hard to resist!

• This dish is usually served with a glass of beer or snaps during holidays.

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 A Taste of Swedish Home

Jansson’s Temptation is more than a potato dish. It’s a piece of Swedish tradition, full of warmth, flavor, and family memories. It brings people together during the most special times of the year — with every bite, it tastes like home.