Smalahove

Smalahove is a traditional dish made with sheep's head as the main ingredient. The head is first left to soak in water for 24 hours. After the brine has been created (salt, sugar, saltpetre), the head is left to soak for another 24 hours, and it's then finally boiled. This delicacy is usually prepared and eaten on the Sunday before Christmas. It's most commonly served with a combination of mashed rutabaga and potatoes, white pepper, nutmeg, butter, and cream. Smalahove dates back to the times when food was scarce, but today it's a festive specialty. Serve it with a glass of strong beer or Akvavit, a Scandinavian schnapps-like spirit.