Cuisine

Icelandic cuisine

Icelandic cuisine is known for its simplicity and use of fresh, local ingredients. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the country's natural resources, with many traditional dishes featuring fish, lamb, and dairy products. Icelandic cuisine is also known for its use of preserved foods, such as pickled herring and fermented shark. Other traditional Icelandic dishes include hangikjöt (smoked lamb), plokkfiskur (fish stew), and skyr (a type of yogurt).

European cuisine› Northern European cuisine› Nordic cuisines

Salty, Savory, Earthy, Sour, Sweet

Grilling, Smoking, Boiling, Pickling, Fermenting

Typical ingredients

Fish (cod, haddock, salmon), Lamb, Dairy products (skyr, cheese), Potatoes, Carrots, Turnips, Onions

Presentation and garnishing

Icelandic dishes are often served simply, with minimal garnishes or sauces. However, some dishes, such as plokkfiskur, are traditionally served with boiled potatoes and turnips.

Icelandic cuisine is known for its use of preserved foods, such as pickled herring and fermented shark. The country is also home to a number of unique ingredients, such as skyr and hangikjöt. Icelandic cuisine has also been influenced by the country's history of isolation and self-sufficiency, with many traditional dishes reflecting the need to preserve food for long periods of time.

More cuisines from this region...

Swedish cuisine, Norwegian cuisine, Finnish cuisine, Danish cuisine, Sami cuisine

History

Icelandic cuisine has a long history, dating back to the country's Viking settlers. The cuisine has evolved over time, with influences from Norway and Denmark. Traditional Icelandic dishes often reflect the country's rural heritage, with many dishes featuring simple, hearty ingredients that are easy to prepare.

Cultural significance

Icelandic cuisine is an important part of the country's cultural heritage, and is celebrated at festivals and events throughout the year. The cuisine is also an important part of the country's tourism industry, with many visitors coming to Iceland to sample traditional dishes and learn about the country's culinary traditions.

Health benefits and considerations

Icelandic cuisine is generally considered to be healthy, as it is based on fresh, local ingredients. However, some traditional dishes, such as hangikjöt and fermented shark, can be high in salt and fat. The cuisine's emphasis on meat and dairy products can also pose risks if not consumed in moderation.

Icelandic cuisine dishes Browse all »

Laufabrauð

Laufabrauð is a traditional Icelandic Christmas bread that is thin and crispy. It is made by rolling out dough very thinly and then cutting it into intricate patterns before...

Vínarterta

Vínarterta is a traditional Icelandic cake that is typically served during the Christmas season. It is made with layers of thin cake and a sweet prune filling.

Icelandic Fish and Chips

Icelandic Fish and Chips is a traditional Icelandic dish that consists of battered and fried fish served with a side of French fries. The dish is known for its crispy and...

Hangikjöt

Icelandic smoked lamb

Hangikjöt is a traditional Icelandic dish that is made with smoked lamb. It is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.

Ábrystir

Icelandic rice pudding

Ábrystir is a traditional Icelandic dish made with lamb and potatoes. It is typically served as a main course and is a hearty and filling meal.

Hákarl

Fermented Shark

Hákarl is a traditional Icelandic dish that is made with fermented shark meat. It is a pungent and strong-tasting dish that is often served as a delicacy.

Whale Meat Dish

Whale meat dish is a traditional Japanese dish that features whale meat as the main ingredient.

Kjötsúpa

Lamb soup

Kjötsúpa is a traditional Icelandic dish that is typically served during the colder months of the year. It is a hearty and flavorful soup that is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.