Bröderna Johansson, Elinors lanthandel
Mariestad

At one time it was the cobblestoned Old square that was at the centre of Mariestad’s market trade. Today Elinor’s Market and Country Store is where it is conveniently located. Immediately inside the shop doorway is the freezer filled with various beef products – everything from entrecote and sirloin steak to fresh sausages and hamburgers spiced with wild garlic.

The meat comes from Hereford cattle traditionally bred on the family farm in Gärdesboda a few kilometers from the shop. It is Elinor’s partner Anders Johansson and his brother Lars who run the farm, focusing on small-scale and locally produced.  

Living close to the animals

During the summer, around 80 head of cattle graze in the pastures around the farm. For the Johansson brothers the work is a way of life. Living near the animals and making sure they are doing well is a fundamental driving force. Small scale slaughter is carried out in a local abattoir, and Anders transports the animals there himself. The marbled Hereford meat is hung the old-fashioned way for 14 days before it is frozen by Elinor.

Home-grown pear products

In addition to the meat there are also other important commodities in the family business. Among these are Elinor’s home-made pear products. These too are sold in the Mariestad shop. The pickled pears for example, have become a signature item for Elinor. They are made with fruit picked in her parents’ garden, and the basis of the recipe was inherited from her grandmother.

Also in the shop in the Old Square are a number of other locally produced delicacies, such as marmalades, sauces, cordials and more. As one would expect in a country store! The shop is open weekday afternoons and for a few hours every Saturday.