Icelandic cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s history, geography, and climate. With limited agriculture and a harsh environment, Icelanders have developed unique food traditions centered around seafood, lamb, and dairy. If you’re visiting Iceland, these seven traditional dishes will give you a true taste of the island’s culinary heritage.
Key Takeaways
- Icelandic cuisine is a fascinating blend of tradition, survival, and innovation
- From fermented shark to comforting lamb soup, these dishes provide a unique insight into Iceland’s culinary heritage
Hákarl (Fermented Shark)
Hákarl is perhaps Iceland’s most infamous dish. It’s made from Greenland shark that has been buried underground to ferment for several months, then hung to dry. The result is a strong-smelling, ammonia-rich delicacy with an intense taste. While it might be an acquired taste, it’s a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Where to Try It
Try Hákarl at Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or sample it at Íslenski Barinn in Reykjavík.
Hangikjöt (Smoked Lamb)
Hangikjöt, meaning “hung meat,” is a traditional Icelandic dish consisting of smoked lamb, mutton, or horse meat. The meat is typically smoked over birch wood or dried sheep dung, giving it a distinct, slightly sweet, and earthy flavor.
It is usually served with boiled potatoes, green peas, white sauce, and laufabrauð (thin, crispy Icelandic bread). This dish is especially popular during Christmas and festive gatherings.
Where to Try It
For an authentic taste of Hangikjöt, visit Matur og Drykkur in Reykjavík, which specializes in traditional Icelandic cuisine, or try it at a countryside farmstay for a homemade experience.
Harðfiskur (Dried Fish)
Harðfiskur is dried fish, typically haddock or cod, that is eaten as a snack. It has a chewy, jerky-like texture and is usually enjoyed with a smear of butter. Packed with protein, it has been a staple of Icelandic diets for centuries.
Where to Try It
You can find Harðfiskur in Icelandic supermarkets like Bonus or at local fish markets.
Icelandic Lamb Soup (Kjötsúpa)
Kjötsúpa is a traditional Icelandic soup made with lamb, root vegetables, and herbs. The broth is rich and flavorful, making it perfect for Iceland’s cold weather. Icelandic lamb is known for its exceptional quality due to the sheep’s free-range grazing on Iceland’s untouched pastures.
Where to Try It
Visit Svarta Kaffið in Reykjavík, which specializes in hearty soups served in bread bowls, or Mjólkurbúðin in Akureyri for a homemade version.
Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog)
Icelandic hot dogs (pylsur) are a national favorite. Made from a mix of lamb, beef, and pork, they are served in a soft bun with raw and crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet brown mustard, and remoulade. Many locals consider them the best hot dogs in the world.
Where to Try It
The most famous place to try an Icelandic hot dog is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavík, a stand that has been serving these delicious treats since 1937.
Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt)
Skyr is a thick, creamy dairy product similar to Greek yogurt but with a milder flavor. It has been a part of Icelandic diets for over a thousand years. Packed with protein and low in fat, it’s often eaten with berries, honey, or even blended into smoothies.
Where to Try It
Skyr is available in all Icelandic supermarkets, but for a homemade version, try Skyrgerðin in Hveragerði.
Rúgbrauð (Icelandic Rye Bread)
Rúgbrauð is a dark, dense rye bread that is traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat. It has a slightly sweet flavor and is commonly served with butter, smoked fish, or lamb.
Where to Try It
Try Rúgbrauð at Laugarvatn Fontana, where you can see the bread being baked in hot springs, or at Café Loki in Reykjavík.
Final Word
Icelandic cuisine is a fascinating blend of tradition, survival, and innovation. From fermented shark to comforting lamb soup, these dishes provide a unique insight into Iceland’s culinary heritage.
Whether you’re sampling dried fish on a road trip or enjoying a hot dog in Reykjavík, each bite tells a story of the land, sea, and culture of Iceland. Bon appétit—or as Icelanders say, Verði þér að góðu!
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