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Midsummer is a big celebration in Nordic countries. This holiday was traditionally celebrated on the 24th of June, but most now celebrate on the Saturday that falls closest to the summer solstice. This year it will be celebrated on June 22nd.
The events start on Midsummer Eve with fun and festive folklore. Young ladies are encouraged to go in silence, walking backwards, as they pick seven different wildflowers to put under their pillow. For extra effectiveness, they should also jump seven fences.
These actions will supposedly help them dream of the man they will marry.
Before going to bed, they should also eat salted porridge so their future husband will bring them water in their dreams.
The next day involves wearing flower crowns, engaging in games and activities, dancing around a maypole, and indulging in a summer feast.
The most traditional dessert is a vanilla layer cake with whipped cream and strawberries. Instead of making a cake, I decided to make a summery version of a Norwegian dessert known as “veiled peasant girl.”
This autumn dessert traditionally features apples, cinnamon, crumbled rusks or toasted breadcrumbs, and whipped cream. I swapped the apples and cinnamon for blush colored strawberries and cardamom to make it perfect for Midsummer.
Veiled peasant girl is believed to have gotten its name from a man who was in love with a peasant girl. This girl repeatedly refused his affections, until one day when she invited him to visit her. He was overjoyed to see her, but quickly dismayed when he learned she only wanted him to taste her dessert creation.
Apparently not all Nordic women are desperate to find husbands.
