Table of Contents

Icelandic Cuisine

Unique Ingredients

Icelandic cuisine often utilizes ingredients unique to the country, such as fermented shark, puffin, whale, and reindeer. 1)

Plokkfiskur

Plokkfiskur is a traditional Icelandic dish made from boiled fish (usually cod) mixed with mashed potatoes, onions, and spices. It is often served with rye bread. 2)

Skyr

Skyr is a popular Icelandic dairy product similar to yogurt. It has a thick and creamy texture and is often enjoyed with berries, honey, or as an ingredient in various desserts. 3)

Hangikjöt

Hangikjöt is a smoked lamb dish that is traditionally eaten during the Christmas season in Iceland. The lamb is cured, smoked, and then cooked, resulting in flavorful and tender meat. 4)

Brennivín

Brennivín is a traditional Icelandic schnapps made from fermented potato mash and flavored with caraway seeds. It is often enjoyed as a shot and is sometimes referred to as “Black Death.” 5)

Rúgbrauð

Rúgbrauð is a traditional Icelandic dark rye bread that is baked in the ground using geothermal heat. The bread has a dense texture and a slightly sweet taste. 6)

Hákarl

Hákarl is a traditional Icelandic delicacy made from fermented shark meat. The meat undergoes a fermentation process and is then hung to dry for several months. It has a strong ammonia smell and is an acquired taste. 7)

Harðfiskur

Harðfiskur is a dried fish snack commonly eaten in Iceland. It is made by air-drying fish, typically cod or haddock, which results in a crispy and protein-rich snack. 8)

Skata

Skata is a fermented skate dish that is known for its pungent smell. It is usually boiled or grilled and is often enjoyed with potatoes. 9)

Kleinur

Kleinur are traditional Icelandic doughnuts. They are deep-fried and have a twisted shape. Kleinur are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee and are a popular treat during festivals. 10)

Laufabrauð

Laufabrauð, also known as “leaf bread,” is a decorative and thin Icelandic bread that is traditionally made during Christmas. It is intricately patterned and often served with butter or smoked lamb. 11)

Hrútspungar

Hrútspungar are pickled ram's testicles that are considered a delicacy in Iceland. They are typically boiled, pressed, and pickled in a mixture of whey, vinegar, and spices. 12)

Flatkaka

Flatkaka is a traditional Icelandic flatbread made from a mixture of rye and wheat flour. It has a dense texture and is often served with butter or smoked lamb. 13)

Kjötsúpa

Kjötsúpa is a traditional Icelandic meat soup made with lamb, vegetables, and potatoes. It is a hearty and warming dish, often enjoyed during cold weather. 14)

Svið

Svið is a traditional Icelandic dish made from sheep's head. The head is singed, cut in half, boiled, and served with mashed potatoes and turnips. 15)