Mustard Dill Sauce for Gravlax - Gravlaxsås

Mustard Dill Sauce for Gravlax - Gravlaxsås is a easy Scandinavian recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Scandinavian Today on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 15 min

Cost: $2.63 total, $0.66 per serving

Ingredients

  • 0.25 cup Dijon Mustard (smooth, classic French mustard)
  • 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard Powder (adds extra mustard punch)
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (balances acidity)
  • 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar (provides bright acidity)
  • 0.5 cup Olive Oil (extra‑virgin preferred for flavor)
  • 4 tablespoons Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Measure dry ingredients

    Measure 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp dry mustard powder, 2 tbsp white wine vinegar, and the salt and pepper into a mixing bowl.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Combine mustard and sugar

    Whisk the mustard, brown sugar, and dry mustard together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Add vinegar

    Stir in the white wine vinegar, mixing until fully incorporated.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Emulsify oil

    Slowly drizzle the 1/2 cup olive oil into the bowl while continuously whisking, creating a smooth emulsion.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Finish with dill and seasoning

    Fold in the chopped fresh dill, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Give the sauce a final stir.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
120
Protein
0g
Carbohydrates
5g
Fat
10g
Fiber
0g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Keto-friendly (moderate carbs)

Allergens: Mustard

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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Mustard Dill Sauce for Gravlax - Gravlaxsås

Recipe by Scandinavian Today

A classic Scandinavian mustard‑dill sauce perfect for topping gravlax or spreading on rye/sourdough bread for a traditional open‑face sandwich. The sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and herbaceous, and can be prepared in under 10 minutes.

EasyScandinavianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
9m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
19m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$2.63
Total cost
$0.66
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Slowly drizzle olive oil while whisking to create a stable emulsion.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Safety Warnings

  • Be careful when whisking oil; it can splatter if added too quickly.
  • Use a sharp knife when chopping dill to avoid slips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of mustard dill sauce in Scandinavian cuisine?

A

Mustard dill sauce, known as "hovmästarsås" in Sweden, traditionally accompanies gravlax, a cured salmon dish that dates back to the Viking era when fish was preserved with salt, sugar, and herbs. The sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast to the rich salmon and is a staple at midsummer feasts and Christmas tables across Scandinavia.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of mustard dill sauce in Sweden versus Norway?

A

In Sweden the sauce typically uses Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, and fresh dill, while Norwegian versions often incorporate honey instead of brown sugar and may add a splash of aquavit for extra flavor. Both aim for a balance of sweet, sour, and herbaceous notes.

cultural
Q

How is mustard dill sauce traditionally served with gravlax in Scandinavia?

A

The sauce is spooned over thin slices of gravlax on rye or crispbread, often accompanied by boiled potatoes, fresh dill sprigs, and a slice of lemon. It is also spread on open‑face sandwiches (smörgås) for a light lunch or snack.

cultural
Q

During which celebrations is gravlax with mustard dill sauce typically enjoyed in Swedish culture?

A

Gravlax with mustard dill sauce is a classic dish at midsummer celebrations, Christmas smörgåsbord, and Easter brunches throughout Sweden. It is also served at casual family gatherings and as a brunch staple year‑round.

cultural
Q

What other Scandinavian dishes pair well with mustard dill sauce?

A

Besides gravlax, the sauce pairs nicely with smoked trout, pickled herring, boiled new potatoes, and as a dip for crispbread. It can also be used as a dressing for cold beet or cucumber salads.

cultural
Q

What makes mustard dill sauce special compared to other fish sauces in European cuisine?

A

Its unique combination of sharp mustard, sweet brown sugar, and fresh dill creates a bright, creamy emulsion that complements the delicate flavor of cured salmon without overpowering it, distinguishing it from French beurre blanc or Greek tzatziki.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making mustard dill sauce for gravlax?

A

Common errors include adding olive oil too quickly, which causes the sauce to separate, and not tasting for seasoning before serving. Also, using low‑quality mustard can result in a bland flavor.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe add dry mustard powder in addition to Dijon mustard?

A

Dry mustard powder intensifies the mustard flavor and helps stabilize the emulsion, giving the sauce a firmer texture that holds up when spread on bread or mixed with gravlax.

technical
Q

Can I make mustard dill sauce ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; give it a quick whisk before using to recombine any settled ingredients.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Scandinavian Today specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Scandinavian Today focuses on traditional and modern Scandinavian cooking, showcasing classic recipes like gravlax, smörgåsbord dishes, and Nordic pastries while highlighting regional ingredients and cultural stories.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Scandinavian Today's approach to Scandinavian cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Scandinavian Today emphasizes authentic techniques, uses locally sourced Nordic ingredients, and often explains the historical context of each dish, whereas many other channels adapt recipes to broader audiences without the same cultural depth.

channel

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