Are you ready for a culinary adventure? Look no further than Iceland, a country known for its hearty and delicious cuisine. From traditional stews to sweet treats, Icelandic recipes are sure to delight even the most adventurous foodies. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering dishes that showcase the best of Icelandic cooking.
From rich lamb stews to flaky fish snacks, Iceland’s unique combination of ingredients and cultural influences has resulted in a cuisine that is both familiar and exotic. And who knows – you might just find your new favorite dish among these recipes! In this article, we’ll take a journey through some of the most iconic Icelandic dishes, from hearty meat soups to sweet pastries. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Traditional Icelandic Lamb Stew
This hearty lamb stew is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, perfect for warming up on a cold winter’s night. This recipe combines tender lamb with root vegetables and aromatic spices to create a rich and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, carrots, potatoes, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the lamb broth and browned lamb back to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Plokkfiskur (Icelandic Fish Stew)
Plokkfiskur is a traditional Icelandic fish stew that warms the soul on a cold winter’s night. This simple yet flavorful recipe has been passed down through generations of Icelandic cooks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups fish stock (or water)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened.
2. Add potatoes, carrot, and garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Add fish pieces and stir to combine with vegetables.
4. Pour in fish stock (or water) and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rúgbrauð (Dark Rye Bread)
Rúgbrauð is a traditional Icelandic dark rye bread that’s dense, moist, and full of flavor. This recipe is a nod to the country’s cultural heritage and is perfect for serving with soups, stews, or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, caraway seeds, and salt.
2. Mix in the yeast and lukewarm water until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is dark brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Harðfiskur (Dried Fish Snacks)
Harðfiskur, also known as dried fish snacks, is a popular Icelandic treat that’s rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. This crunchy snack is perfect for on-the-go or as a healthy addition to your daily routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cod or haddock (such as Harðfiskur)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried fish under cold running water to remove any impurities.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rinsed fish and olive oil. Massage the fish gently with your hands until it’s evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle salt to taste over the fish mixture.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None – simply rinse and serve!
Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful snack, a staple in Icelandic cuisine.
Kjötsúpa (Icelandic Meat Soup)
Kjötsúpa is a traditional Icelandic soup made with lamb or beef, vegetables, and grains. This comforting dish is perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the lamb or beef, onions, and garlic until the meat is browned.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, pearl barley, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pönnukökur (Icelandic Pancakes)
A traditional Icelandic breakfast or snack, Pönnukökur are fluffy and tender pancakes that pair perfectly with sweet or savory toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, and water until smooth.
2. Add the egg and whisk until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Grease the pan with butter or oil.
5. Using a ladle, pour in small amounts of batter to form pancakes.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Skyr Cake with Berries
This moist and flavorful Skyr cake is infused with the sweetness of berries and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for a warm-weather dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup Skyr (Icelandic yogurt)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, Skyr, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool before topping with mixed berries and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Laufabrauð (Leaf Bread)
Laufabrauð, or Leaf Bread, is a traditional Icelandic flatbread that is typically served during the winter months to celebrate the longest night of the year (Yule). This recipe yields a delicate, crispy bread with a subtle sweetness and a hint of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and cardamom.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Shape into a ball and let rest for 10-15 minutes.
5. Roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Cook on a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds per side, or until lightly browned.
7. Serve warm with butter, cheese, or as a base for other Icelandic dishes.
Cooking Time: 2-4 minutes per batch
Icelandic Hot Dogs with Remoulade
Experience the bold flavors of Iceland with this unique hot dog recipe, paired with a creamy remoulade sauce. This twist on the classic hot dog is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 Icelandic lamb or beef hot dogs (such as Lysi or Marel)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook hot dogs according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Serve hot dogs with remoulade sauce on the side for dipping.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Saltfiskur (Salted Cod with Potatoes)
A traditional Icelandic dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. This recipe combines the richness of salted cod with the simplicity of boiled potatoes, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salted cod (saltfisk), drained and flaked
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat.
3. Add the flaked salted cod and stir occasionally until it’s rehydrated and flakes easily with a fork, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and add them to the pan with the cod. Toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flatkaka with Smoked Lamb
This traditional Icelandic dish combines the crispy, savory flatbread known as Flatkaka with tender smoked lamb, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Flatkaka mix (or make your own dough using flour, water, and salt)
– 1/2 pound smoked lamb, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Flatkaka according to package instructions or make your own dough from scratch.
3. Slice the smoked lamb into thin strips.
4. Brush the melted butter on top of the cooked Flatkaka.
5. Top the flatbread with sliced smoked lamb, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (depending on oven temperature)
Brennivín Cured Salmon
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Brennivín, a traditional Icelandic caraway-flavored spirit, with the richness of cured salmon. The result is a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for serving at your next dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet (preferably wild-caught)
– 1/2 cup Brennivín
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black peppercorns, coarsely ground
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Brennivín, brown sugar, and kosher salt.
3. Place the salmon fillet on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a plate.
4. Pour the Brennivín mixture evenly over the salmon, making sure to coat it completely.
5. Sprinkle the black peppercorns over the top of the salmon.
6. Cure the salmon for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
7. Remove the salmon from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Icelandic Lobster Soup
Warm up with a bowl of creamy Icelandic Lobster Soup, made with succulent langoustines and aromatic vegetables. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound langoustines (Icelandic lobster), shells removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add langoustines and fish stock; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until lobster is cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hangikjöt (Smoked Lamb)
Hangikjöt, or smoked lamb, is a beloved national dish in Iceland that’s both flavorful and tender. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional method, allowing you to recreate this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg lamb shoulder or neck, boneless
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 100ml white wine vinegar
– 100ml water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb shoulder or neck.
4. Place the lamb in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
6. During the last hour of smoking, baste the lamb with white wine vinegar and water mixture.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Vinarterta (Layered Prune Cake)
Vinarterta is a beloved Scandinavian dessert that combines the sweetness of prunes with the warmth of spices and the comfort of traditional baking. This layered prune cake is a classic holiday treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) prunes, chopped
– 1 cup (200g) sugar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine prunes, sugar, water, and melted butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and eggs. Pour prune mixture into the batter and mix until combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Svið (Singed Sheep’s Head)
In Iceland, Svið is a traditional dish that’s been passed down through generations. This recipe provides a unique culinary experience for adventurous foodies.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheep’s head
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped into large pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Water or lamb broth for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Rinse the sheep’s head under cold water, pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a large pot of boiling salted water, simmer the potatoes and onion for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. Place the sheep’s head on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Sprinkle caraway seeds over the skull and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Bake the sheep’s head in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve the Svið with boiled potatoes and onions on the side.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Icelandic Blueberry Soup
A sweet and tangy soup that showcases the unique flavor of Icelandic blueberries, perfect for a cozy evening or as a refreshing summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen Icelandic blueberries
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Heavy cream or sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, broth, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until the cornstarch is well combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or chilled, topped with heavy cream or sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kleinur (Twisted Doughnuts)
Kleinur are a beloved Icelandic treat that requires minimal ingredients and yields maximum flavor. These twisted doughnuts are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add warm water and yeast; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a thin rope (about 12 inches long).
6. Twist the ropes into tight knots, securing with a small tuck at the end.
7. Fry the Kleinur in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: approximately 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these 18 hearty Icelandic recipes! From traditional dishes like lamb stew and fish stew, to sweet treats like layer cake and twisted doughnuts, there’s something for every adventurous foodie. Discover the rich flavors and textures of Icelandic cuisine, from the comfort of your own kitchen. With recipes ranging from simple to complex, you’ll be able to try out new flavors and ingredients. So put on your apron and get cooking with these authentic Icelandic recipes!
