14 Delicious Icelandic Recipes You Need to Try Now!

Discover the unique and mouthwatering flavors of Icelandic cuisine with these 14 delicious Icelandic recipes you need to try now! From traditional dishes to modern twists on classic favorites, each recipe showcases the fresh, wholesome ingredients that Iceland is known for. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the land of fire and ice, as we explore Icelandic dishes that will leave your taste buds craving for more!

#1. Plokkfiskur (Icelandic Fish Stew) – 450 calories per serving

Warm up your soul with Plokkfiskur, a traditional Icelandic fish stew that combines creamy potatoes, flaky fish, and savory onions. A comforting dish perfect for chilly nights, Plokkfiskur is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod or haddock)
• 1 lb potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped chives, for garnish

Recipe:

1. In a large pot, boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pot, poach the fish in milk until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the fish and flake it into pieces, reserving the milk.
3. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat, and sauté the onions until translucent.
4. Add the flour to the onions, stirring constantly until a smooth paste forms.
5. Gradually add the reserved milk, stirring continuously, to create a thick sauce.
6. Stir in the flaked fish and cooked potatoes, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Gently simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives.

#2. Skyr Cake with Blueberry Sauce (Icelandic Cheesecake) – 350 calories per serving

Indulge your sweet tooth with this Skyr Cake, a heavenly Icelandic cheesecake made from skyr, a creamy, tangy yogurt-like dairy product. Topped with a luscious blueberry sauce, this dessert is both decadent and refreshing.

Ingredients: Skyr Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed digestive biscuits
• 6 tbsp melted butter
• 2 cups skyr
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin

Blueberry Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Recipe: Skyr Cake:

1. Combine the crushed digestive biscuits and melted butter in a bowl, then press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the skyr, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. In a small saucepan, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let sit for 5 minutes. Gently heat the gelatin mixture until it dissolves, then let it cool slightly.
4. Stir the dissolved gelatin into the skyr mixture, then pour over the chilled crust. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Blueberry Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, water, cornstarch, and lemon juice, stirring until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
2. Cook the blueberry mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes syrupy, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely.
4. Once the Skyr Cake is set, release it from the springform pan and top with the cooled blueberry sauce. Serve chilled.

#3. Lambakótelettur (Icelandic Lamb Chops) – 400 calories per serving

Savor the tender and flavorful Lambakótelettur, Icelandic lamb chops seasoned with a mix of herbs and garlic. Grilled to perfection, these lamb chops make a sumptuous main course for any dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 8 lamb chops
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Recipe:

1. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the lamb chops with the herb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate the lamb chops for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
6. Allow the lamb chops to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

#4. Kjötsúpa (Icelandic Meat Soup) – 300 calories per serving

Warm up with Kjötsúpa, a hearty Icelandic meat soup filled with tender chunks of lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions. This delicious and nutritious soup is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups lamb or beef broth
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 cups rutabaga, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup barley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe:

1. In a large pot, brown the lamb pieces over medium-high heat, then remove them and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until soft and translucent.
3. Add the broth, browned lamb, potatoes, carrots, rutabaga, barley, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Lower the heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the lamb and vegetables are tender.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

#5. Rúgbrauð (Icelandic Rye Bread) – 200 calories per slice

Delight your taste buds with Rúgbrauð, a dense and slightly sweet Icelandic rye bread traditionally baked in geothermal hot springs. Enjoy a warm slice of Rúgbrauð with butter, cheese, or smoked fish for a taste of Icelandic tradition.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dark rye flour
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup golden syrup or molasses

Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rye flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, buttermilk, and golden syrup or molasses.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake the bread for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

#6. Harðfiskur (Icelandic Dried Fish) – 150 calories per serving

Experience a classic Icelandic snack with Harðfiskur, a protein-rich dried fish. Traditionally made from haddock, cod, or catfish, Harðfiskur is best enjoyed with a generous spread of butter.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh fish fillets (haddock, cod, or catfish)
• Salt

Recipe:

1. Clean the fish fillets and remove any bones.
2. Cut the fillets into thin strips, around 1-inch wide.
3. Lay the fish strips on a wire rack, sprinkle them lightly with salt, and let them rest for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature setting (around 150°F or 65°C).
5. Place the wire rack with the fish strips in the oven and leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.
6. Dry the fish for 8-12 hours, or until it becomes hard and brittle.
7. Store the Harðfiskur in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. To serve, break the dried fish into pieces and spread butter on them.

#7. Lummur (Icelandic Pancakes) – 110 calories per pancake

Treat yourself to Lummur, scrumptious Icelandic pancakes that are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Serve them with jam, syrup, or whipped cream for a delightful indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover cooked rice or cooked barley
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Butter, for frying

Recipe:

1. In a bowl, combine the cooked rice or barley with the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter.
5. Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the pan, spreading them out into round pancakes.
6. Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve the Lummur warm, topped with your choice of jam, syrup, or whipped cream.

#8. Kleinur (Icelandic Donuts) – 160 calories per donut

Satisfy your cravings with Kleinur, delightful Icelandic donuts that are twisted and deep-fried until golden brown. Enjoy these sweet treats with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect midday pick-me-up or a tasty dessert.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Recipe:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt or sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
6. Roll the dough out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch, then cut it into rectangles or squares.
7. Make a small slit in the center of each piece and twist one end through the slit to create the classic Kleinur shape.
8. In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
9. Fry the Kleinur in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
10. Remove the fried Kleinur with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
11. Once cooled, dust the Kleinur with powdered sugar if desired, and serve.

#9. Icelandic Potato Salad – 230 calories per serving

Add a refreshing twist to your meal with this Icelandic Potato Salad, a delightful combination of potatoes, red onions, and dill, dressed with a tangy yogurt-based sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup plain yogurt or skyr
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Recipe:

1. In a large pot, boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, red onion, and fresh dill.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt or skyr, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Refrigerate the potato salad for at least 1 hour, or overnight, for the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled.

#10. Súrmjólk (Icelandic Sour Milk) – 150 calories per serving

Discover the unique tangy flavor of Súrmjólk, an Icelandic sour milk made from fermenting milk with a special culture. Enjoy it on its own, in smoothies, or as a base for various Icelandic recipes.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup Icelandic sour milk starter culture (available online or at specialty stores)

Recipe:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk to 185°F (85°C), then remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to 110°F (43°C).
2. In a large, clean container, mix the cooled milk with the Icelandic sour milk starter culture.
3. Cover the container with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature (around 68-77°F or 20-25°C) for 12-24 hours, or until the milk has thickened and developed a tangy flavor.
4. Once the Súrmjólk has reached your desired consistency and flavor, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours before consuming.
5. To make more Súrmjólk, reserve a portion of your homemade sour milk as a starter culture for your next batch.

#11. Gravlax (Icelandic Cured Salmon) – 190 calories per serving

Experience the sublime flavor of Gravlax, an Icelandic cured salmon that combines the bright flavors of dill, lemon, and juniper berries. This elegant appetizer is perfect for special occasions or as a gourmet treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin on
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1 tbsp cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp crushed juniper berries
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 large bunch fresh dill, chopped

Recipe:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, salt, black pepper, crushed juniper berries, and lemon zest.
2. Lay a piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface, and place half of the chopped dill on it.
3. Place the salmon fillet, skin-side down, on top of the dill.
4. Spread the sugar-salt mixture evenly over the flesh side of the salmon.
5. Cover the salmon with the remaining chopped dill.
6. Wrap the salmon tightly with the plastic wrap and place it on a tray or dish to catch any liquid that may seep out during the curing process.
7. Refrigerate the salmon for 48-72 hours, turning it every 12 hours and basting it with the liquid that accumulates.
8. After the curing process, remove the salmon from the refrigerator and carefully unwrap it. Rinse off the curing mixture and pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
9. Slice the Gravlax thinly, cutting it diagonally away from the skin, and serve with crackers, bread, or as part of a salad.

#12. Þorramatur (Icelandic Traditional Food Platter) – 450 calories per serving

Experience a taste of Icelandic history with Þorramatur, a traditional food platter often served during the Þorrablót midwinter festival. This platter showcases an array of preserved meats, fish, and vegetables, providing a unique culinary adventure.

Ingredients:

• Harðfiskur (Icelandic Dried Fish)
• Hangikjöt (Icelandic Smoked Lamb)
• Súrmjólk (Icelandic Sour Milk)
• Rúgbrauð (Icelandic Rye Bread)
• Pickled herring
• Cured salmon
• Pickled red cabbage
• Boiled potatoes
• Assorted Icelandic cheeses

Recipe:

1. Assemble the Þorramatur platter by arranging a variety of the prepared ingredients on a large serving plate or wooden board.
2. Serve with slices of Rúgbrauð, crackers, or crusty bread for a complete and authentic Icelandic feast.

#13. Skonsur (Icelandic Flatbread) – 180 calories per piece

Enjoy a versatile and delicious addition to your meal with Skonsur, a traditional Icelandic flatbread. These soft, slightly chewy flatbreads are perfect for serving with soups, stews, or as a base for open-faced sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Recipe:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the milk and melted butter.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8-inch thick.
6. Preheat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the Skonsur one at a time for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are puffed and lightly browned.
8. Serve the Skonsur warm, or store them in an airtight container once cooled.

#14. Saltfiskur með Rófu (Salted Fish with Turnip Mash) – 280 calories per serving

Savor the comforting flavors of Saltfiskur með Rófu, a traditional Icelandic dish of salted fish served with a creamy turnip mash. This hearty meal is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salted white fish (such as cod or haddock), soaked overnight in cold water
• 1 lb turnips, peeled and diced
• 1 lb potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe:

1. Drain the soaked fish and place it in a large pot. Cover the fish with fresh water and bring it to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer the fish for 10-15 minutes, or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Drain the fish and keep it warm.
3. In a separate pot, boil the turnips and potatoes until tender, then drain and return them to the pot.
4. Add the butter and heavy cream to the pot with the turnips and potatoes, and mash the mixture until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Serve the salted fish with a generous portion of turnip mash, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Now that you have these 14 delicious Icelandic recipes to try, immerse yourself in the unique flavors and culinary traditions of Iceland. Enjoy your Icelandic feast!

Top 3 FAQ’s and Answers Icelandic Cuisine:

Q1: What is Skyr and how is it different from yogurt?

A: Skyr is an Icelandic dairy product that is similar to yogurt but has a thicker consistency and a milder, slightly tangy flavor. It is made from skimmed milk and is rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics. While it can be used as a substitute for yogurt in recipes, Skyr is unique in its taste and texture. To learn more about Skyr and its benefits, check out this informative article about the differences between Skyr and yogurt.

Q2: How do I store Harðfiskur (Icelandic Dried Fish) and how long does it last?

A: Harðfiskur should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, it can last for several months. To maintain its quality and freshness, you can also store Harðfiskur in the refrigerator or freezer. When serving, break the dried fish into pieces and spread butter on them.

Q3: Can I substitute the Icelandic ingredients in these recipes with more easily accessible ingredients?

A: While some Icelandic ingredients, like Skyr or Icelandic sour milk starter culture, may be harder to find in some areas, you can still make these recipes using substitutes. For Skyr, you can use Greek yogurt or regular yogurt, and for the Icelandic sour milk starter culture, you can try using a buttermilk or kefir starter culture. Keep in mind that substitutions may affect the final taste and texture of the dish, but they can still produce delicious results.

Well, folks, we’ve journeyed through the delicious world of Icelandic cuisine, and I bet you’re feeling hungrier than a Viking after a long day of sailing! But hey, why stop the adventure here? If you’re feeling inspired to explore more tantalizing culinary delights, let’s hop on our metaphorical longship and sail over to these 7 mouth-watering squash recipes you need to try now. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Until next time, happy feasting, and may your kitchen be as bountiful as the Icelandic fishing grounds!