21+ Simple Iceland Recipes to Bring a Taste of the Land of Fire and Ice to Your Kitchen!
Iceland may seem far away, but its flavors can easily travel to your kitchen. With its unique blend of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, Icelandic cuisine is a delightful adventure for any home cook. Get ready to explore some simple yet delicious recipes that will transport you straight to the stunning landscapes of this Nordic island.
Imagine a creamy, tangy yogurt-like dish topped with vibrant, sweet berries. Skyr is a staple in Icelandic cuisine, known for its rich texture and high protein content, making it a perfect breakfast or dessert.
2 cups of Skyr (or Greek yogurt)
1 cup of mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
This dish is incredibly popular in Iceland, often enjoyed during breakfast or as a refreshing snack. The combination of the tart Skyr and the sweetness of the berries creates a delightful balance of flavors, making each bite a treat.
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: White fish, potatoes, butter, milk, flour Total Time: 20 min.
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Warm, comforting, and filled with tender fish, Plokkfiskur is a true Icelandic classic. This hearty stew showcases the fresh catch from the surrounding seas, simmered with potatoes and a creamy sauce that ties everything together.
What makes Plokkfiskur special is its simplicity and heartiness. It’s a dish that reflects Iceland’s love for seafood, and it warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly nights. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover fish, making it both economical and delicious!
This dark, dense bread is a staple in many Icelandic homes. Rúgbrauð has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor, which pairs perfectly with butter, smoked fish, or cheese.
2 cups of rye flour
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 cup of buttermilk
1/2 cup of molasses
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1 teaspoon of salt
Rúgbrauð is traditionally baked in a pot underground, using geothermal heat, but you can easily make it in your oven. Its unique flavor and texture make it a favorite for both locals and visitors alike, often served with a side of butter or as the base for open-faced sandwiches.
This warm and hearty lamb soup is a beloved comfort food in Iceland. Kjötsúpa is packed with tender lamb, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that is both nourishing and satisfying.
1 pound of lamb (shoulder or shank), cut into pieces
4 cups of water
2 carrots, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 potatoes, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe is special because it showcases the high-quality lamb raised in Iceland’s clean environment. Each bowl of Kjötsúpa is like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with family and friends, especially during the colder months.
Rating: 4. Ingredients: 15 min Total Time: 15 min.
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Are you feeling adventurous? Hákarl is one of the most unique dishes in Iceland, made from fermented Greenland shark. It has a strong flavor that’s definitely an acquired taste, often enjoyed with a shot of Brennivín, an Icelandic schnapps.
1 piece of Greenland shark (if you dare)
Salt (for curing)
Brennivín (optional, for serving)
While Hákarl might not be for everyone, it’s a traditional food that reflects Iceland’s history and culture. Sampling this dish is a rite of passage for many visitors and is often accompanied by stories and laughter among friends.
Rating: 4. Ingredients: Cocoa powder, potato starch, cinnamon, sugar Total Time: 15 min.
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These aren’t just any hot dogs; Icelandic Pylsur are made from a mix of lamb, beef, and pork, resulting in a unique flavor that you just can’t resist. They are often served with a variety of toppings, making each bite a fun experience.
Icelandic hot dogs (Pylsur)
Soft hot dog buns
Raw onions, chopped
Fried onions
Ketchup
Remoulade (a creamy sauce)
Pylsur are a popular street food in Iceland, often enjoyed after a night out or during a long day of exploring. The combination of textures and flavors, from the crispy onions to the tangy sauces, makes these hot dogs a must-try!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.
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This delightful cake is filled with a sweet rhubarb jam, enveloped in a soft and buttery crust. Hjónabandssæla is often baked for special occasions, symbolizing love and happiness.
2 cups of flour
1 cup of butter, softened
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of rhubarb jam
1 egg
1 teaspoon of baking powder
What makes Hjónabandssæla special is its heartfelt connection to Icelandic traditions. With its delicious filling and tender crust, it’s perfect for celebrations or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee while reminiscing about fond memories.
Rating: 4. Ingredients: Cocoa powder, potato starch, cinnamon, sugar Total Time: 15 min.
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This unique platter is a celebration of traditional Icelandic foods, featuring a variety of cured meats, fish, and pickled delights. Þorramatur is often served during Þorrablót, a midwinter festival, and it’s a feast for the senses.
Thinly sliced cured lamb (Hangikjöt)
Pickled herring
Fermented shark (Hákarl)
Rye bread
Mustard and butter for dipping
This platter not only showcases traditional Icelandic flavors but also encourages sharing and togetherness, making it a popular choice for gatherings. Each item on the platter has its own story, connecting you to Iceland’s rich history and culture while tantalizing your taste buds.
