Surströmming Challenge

The concept of rations in D&D has always intrigued me. Often overlooked, what adventurers consume while journeying outside of town is typically assumed to be dried fruit, hardtack, and beef jerky. However, what many players fail to consider is that portable foods in the game are culturally significant and can vary depending on the location or character race. For instance, the delectable Lembas Bread of the Elves of Lothlórien would not likely be found at Lonely Mountain. The diversity of rations in D&D adds depth and realism to the game, making it all the more engaging for players who enjoy immersing themselves in a rich and dynamic world.

That brings us to Surströmming.

Surströmming is a traditional Swedish dish that has become infamous for its pungent odor and unique flavor. The dish is made from fermented Baltic herring, which is canned and left to ferment for several months, producing a strong smell and a sour taste. While some people find the smell and taste unbearable, others consider it a delicacy and enjoy it as a traditional part of Swedish cuisine.

The process of making surströmming is relatively simple, but it requires a lot of time and patience. First, the Baltic herring is caught during the spring and summer months when they are at their fattest. The fish are then cleaned, salted, and placed in a barrel to ferment for several months. During this time, the fish undergo a process of lactic acid fermentation, which produces a strong smell and sour taste.

Fish fermenting in a barrel

After several months, the fermented herring is canned and sold. The can is pressurized to prevent it from bursting due to the gases produced during fermentation. When the can is opened, the strong smell of surströmming is released, which has been described as a combination of rotten eggs and rotten fish.

Pressure built up in the can

Surströmming is traditionally eaten with bread, potatoes, and onions. The dish is usually served outdoors, as the strong smell can be overwhelming in enclosed spaces. Some people eat it straight from the can, while others prefer to soak it in water for several hours to reduce the smell and soften the fish.

While surströmming is a beloved part of Swedish cuisine, it has also gained notoriety around the world for its pungent odor. In fact, surströmming has been banned on some airlines and public transportation due to concerns over the smell.

If you have read this far and wondered - Could I stomach Surströmming? Well, you could find out yourselves by purchasing a can on Amazon (at $79.95) OR you could tune in this Sunday, March 12th around 12:30 to watch our DM and Site Partner Brian from TMSyndicate as he takes the Surströmming Challenge. Brian can be so mild mannered at times, I personally cannot wait to see how this goes down live and unedited. Please tune in with us HERE and check it out.