Sot Suppe (Norwegian Sweet Soup) for Christmas

A Taste of Norwegian Heritage

My mother was the daughter of Norwegian immigrants who settled on a small dairy farm in Wisconsin during the late 1800s. Growing up, she cherished the tradition of having sweet soup, or Sot Suppe, as a part of our Christmas Eve celebrations. This dish, served cold alongside julekake, lefse, Christmas bread, or open-faced sandwiches, was a staple in our household. The sweet soup is a delightful concoction made with dried fruits and tapioca, offering a taste of our Norwegian heritage.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• 6 cups water
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon quick-cooking tapioca
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste; a cinnamon stick can also be used)
• 2 cups dried fruit (such as apples, apricots, peaches, or a mixture)
• 1 cup raisins (dark or golden)
• 1 cup dried prunes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (alternatively, 1 teaspoon dried lemon rind or several slices of fresh lemon)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar, tapioca, cinnamon, and water. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly.
2. Add Fruit: Stir in the dried fruit and lemon slices (if using). Bring to a boil again, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the fruit is tender.
3. Add Lemon Juice: If using lemon juice or dried lemon rind, stir it in after the fruit is tender. Remove lemon slices before serving if used.
4. Serve: Enjoy the sweet soup either warm or cold, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

For a light afternoon 'Norwegian' lunch after outdoor activities like hiking, sledding, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, serve sweet soup with:

• Julekake or Christmas bread
• Christmas cookies
• Open-faced sandwiches
• A variety of sliced cheeses

Sweet soup served cold is also a refreshing treat on a hot summer day.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Norwegian Immigration: Between 1825 and 1925, over 800,000 Norwegians immigrated to the United States, with many settling in the Midwest, including Wisconsin (source).
• Dried Fruit Consumption: In 2020, the global dried fruit market was valued at approximately $8.94 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2021 to 2028 (source).
• Tapioca's Popularity: Tapioca, derived from cassava, is a staple in many cultures. In 2019, the global tapioca market size was valued at $4.6 billion and is projected to reach $6.7 billion by 2027 (source).

Conclusion

Sot Suppe is more than just a dish; it's a connection to our Norwegian roots and a cherished family tradition. Whether served warm on a cold winter night or chilled on a hot summer day, this sweet soup brings a touch of Norwegian culture to any table. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones, and keep the tradition alive for future generations.

References:

1. Library of Congress - Norwegian Immigration
2. Grand View Research - Dried Fruits Market
3. Allied Market Research - Tapioca Market