ON THE COVER We have been inspired by Swedish stylist Sanna Fyring Liedgren’s enchanting lantern-lit feast. See her tips for stylish
We asked cook and stylist Sanna Frying Liedgren to create the ultimate winter feast. Join us in her magical garden
Sanna Fyring Liedgren’s home is nestled in scenic
countryside on the outskirts of Stockholm, Sweden. In winter, her garden becomes a dramatic snowscape; an idyllic backdrop for her dinner parties, which she enjoys with friends, family, and her dog, Mymlan. Here, Sanna (above) shares her secrets for creating an atmospheric feast with minimal fuss. Cook in advance. A casserole is perfect, as you can do almost all of the work beforehand (even a day ahead), leaving you free to enjoy the company of your guests once the evening begins. Think practically when dressing the table. Apart from floral arrangements, the items I choose for the table all have a clear purpose. The food should always be the centrepiece! I like to place as many dishes on the table as possible, rather than producing plates from the kitchen – it’s a more homely way of serving guests. Use simple table linen. My tablecloth is from the Stockholm-based store Garbo Interiors [try The Linen Works for similar in the UK]. The store’s owners go treasure hunting several times a year, often in France, and return with the most beautiful pieces. Mix materials and textures. I love the combination of metal and ceramic tableware, but would definitely advise restraint; the table setting should not be overwhelming. I always choose muted colours – the decoration should never be louder than the food! Hang lanterns from the branches of trees. Here I have mixed new and secondhand lanterns, as well as one that I picked up at a bazaar in Istanbul [try Moroccan Bazaar in the UK]. Light a fire for warmth and comfort. Nordic winters are very dark, so light and heat is essential for a winter celebration. We serve the starters outside, then head indoors for the main course. Ensure guests feel comfortable enough to serve themselves.
I put plenty of water carafes and wine bottles on the table. It’s only when the dishes have been passed around and the wine is half drunk that a table really comes alive. homegrownswedes.com
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