Eat Smart in Denmark: How to Decipher the Menu, Know the Market Foods & Embark on a Tasting Adventure

The food in Denmark is delicious if you eat at genuine Danish restaurants.

Review by Sharon Hudgins, author of The Other Side of Russia: A Slice of Life in Siberia and the Russian Far EastEAT SMART IN DENMARK, by mother-daughter team, Carol and Katrina Schroeder, is the latest addition to the award-winning EAT SMART IN... series of culinary guidebooks to specific countries around the world. Well written, authoritative, and informative, this handy paperback follows the format of the other books in the series, beginning with an overview of the history of Danish cuisine, based on archeological findings and later written records, which connects ancient, medieval, and 19th-century Danish foods and techniques with contemporary Danish cuisine, including the now famous New Nordic Cuisine movement. This connectivity is apparent throughout the book, as the authors point out that today, as in the much more distant past, Danes consume local, seasonal foods "including fish, wild game, whole grain [rye] bread, potatoes, fresh vegetables, nuts, berries, and fruits..." with less emphasis on the butter and pork that were characteristic of Danish cuisine during the past couple of centuries. The historical section is followed by an excellent overview of popular Danish foods, with a section summarizing regional foods and Danish holiday traditions. The authors not only describe Danish culinary customs in different regions of the country, but also explain their origins and meanings. A recipe chapter features 29 tested recipes for classic popular Danish dishes. Starting with a good explanation of Danish meal times and dishes commonly eaten at them, the Menu Guide chapter is a very helpful alphabetical listing (and translation) of dishes found on Danish restaurant menus, including baked goods, beverages, sausages, and cheeses. The Foods & Flavors Guide is a separate chapter of alphabetical Danish-to-English words for ingredients, kitchen utensils, and cooking techniques. If this has whetted your appetite for more, there is also a good bibliography of Danish culinary books published in English.I've long been a fan of books in this series, but I think EAT SMART IN DENMARK might be one of my favorites. After reading this book you'll want to get on the next flight to Denmark to start your own culinary tour of this fascinating country. Highly recommended.