The crayfish season begins on August 7th and lasts until the end of September. During this time, a "crayfish party" (kräftskiva) can be organized, which is a festive gathering to eat crayfish. The crayfish party is a way to bid farewell to summer and welcome autumn.
How are crayfish prepared?
Crayfish are boiled in dill, salt, and sugar. However, most people buy already cooked crayfish, either frozen or fresh.
What types of crayfish?
Signal crayfish (signalkräfta) are the most commonly eaten, but Swedish freshwater crayfish are also prepared for the crayfish party.
What is eaten with crayfish?
- Västerbotten cheese pie, a pie filled with Västerbotten cheese and topped with sour cream, caviar, and chopped chives
- Bread in all its various forms and types
- Aioli for dipping the crayfish for extra flavor
- Crispbread in different forms
- Potato salad
- Green salad
- Drinks: snaps (small shot of a strong alcoholic beverage), white and rosé wine, or a good beer pairs well.
History of the crayfish party
The first crayfish party was held in 1562, where Princess Anna Vasa served crayfish at her wedding feast. The inspiration came from German monasteries. However, it wasn't until 1920 that the trend of crayfish parties became more widespread among Swedes.
Songs at the Crayfish Party
It's common to sing snaps songs when drinking snaps at the crayfish party. Here's a link to suitable songs.
Sources: ICA.se , Swedish Radio
