Why Iceland? Or should I say why not Iceland? Home to untouched natural landscapes, the land of fire and ice is filled with wonders. From glaciers to volcanoes and northern lights, Iceland is a magical must-see destination to visit at least once in your life. In previous articles, We have gathered a 101 travel guide to successfully plan a trip to Iceland. We’ve also shared our winter South Coast itinerary. Yet foodie that we are, we couldn’t skip listing must try foods in Iceland.
What is Iceland cuisine known for?
Iceland cuisine reflects the island’s unique geographical and climatic conditions, featuring a blend of traditional Nordic flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Seafood plays a central role showcasing the abundance of the North Atlantic. Lamb is another staple, often enjoyed in hearty stews for cold days. Due to the harsh weather conditions, vegetables are less known in the traditional culinary arts. However, with the geo-thermal heated greenhouses, chefs have had more ingredients to play around with local recipes.
To indulge in the unique flavors of Iceland cuisine is to taste traditional dishes like Hákarl (fermented shark) or grab an Icelandic “hot dog” from a street vendor. Given the opportunity, those who call themselves adventurous foodies could have the chance to try puffin or whale meat (I personally passed them all).
Iceland cuisine, the local delicacies:
If you ask me, what have you tried in Iceland, I will scream fish and bread for sure. In restaurants most ordered meals include Haddock, salmon, and Monkfish. Served either with local Icelandic herbs or multiple spices seasoning. Next to the indoor meals, Icelandic goods offer a wide range of gourmet treats on the go as well.
With no further ado, here is a glimpse of Iceland cuisine delicacies one shouldn’t miss when visiting.
1. Harðfiskur and Humar.
The first item on the menu must be Harðfiskur, which is an old-style dried stockfish. Usually spread with butter or eaten directly out of the package, this snack is available at weekly markets and at every grocery store across the country (the taste was kind of weird, not on my top favorites for sure).
Second comes Humar, the famous lobster from the south coast waters. It is a mouthwatering treat served with a sea-flavored dip. Although slightly expensive, the sweetness of its taste and the softness of its texture will plainly pay you off.
2. Plokkfiskur and Humarsúpa.
Next, fish stew. Locally referred to as Plokkfiskur, this soup is a mix of white fish, potatoes and onions cooked in a blend of flour, milk and seasoning. It is definitely the cold-weather comfort food one needs to warm up during the freezing Icelandic nights.
Then comes Humarsúpa, a creamy langoustine soup. Enriched with aromatic herb oil and crowned with crispy fried langoustines, this dish is usually paired with house-baked bread and whipped butter for a comforting dining experience.
3. Icelandic lamb.
Lamb Fillet is also a country’s must, a smoked meat that pays tribute to the traditional preservation methods (Not on my top list either since I am not a big fan of lamb). Today it is a Christmas treat presented with potatoes in bechamel sauce and a mix of green peas and cabbage.
If you aren’t dining-in, Hangikjot sandwich is kind of an alternative. For meat lovers, this snack-like dish is a generous amount of thinly sliced smoked lamb served in a Faltkaka, a flat rye bread baked in frying pans.
4. Langoustine tails.
Iceland langoustine tails are like a gift from the sea, each bite brings you closer to the rugged shores of Iceland. Sourced from its icy waters, these tails are either grilled or nestled in a creamy soup. Although the most famous version is the Langoustine in a pan. Basically, the tails are quickly seared in a hot pan with butter or oil until they turn pink and become slightly caramelized on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Once cooked, Iceland langoustine tails are served hot with lemon wedges and perhaps a side of garlic butter or aioli for dipping (simple yet delicious).
5. Smoked Arctic Char.
Next on the menu, smoked Arctic Char. To make this dish, the Char is first prepared by brining fillets in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices, which is then air-dried to form a pellicle. Afterwards, it is smoked over a low fire of hardwoods and dried seaweed for several hours. Once this is done, it’s cooled, sliced thinly, and served as a delicacy or in various dishes locally appreciated for its rich smoky flavor and tender texture.
6. Skyr.
Last but not least, Skyr – The Icelandic yogurt. Present in the country’s food menu for over a thousand year, Skyr is a dairy product like Greek yogurt consumed with fruits or as a base for smoothies. It is also the local cheese used for the Icelandic version of cheesecake ‘Skyrkaka‘.
7. Lakkris crème brulée - Liquorice.
Finally, Lakkris crème brulée for a sweet bite. As you might have guessed, this is twist on the classic dessert, crème brulée. Lakkris dessert features a creamy custard infused with the unique flavor of licorice. As a renowned Icelandic treat, this serving combines the smoothness of traditional crème brûlée with the distinct taste of licorice to create the perfect balance of sweetness and herbal notes. Usually topped with a caramelized sugar crust, the satisfying crunch and the velvety texture makes it a must-try for anyone looking to experience the sweet flavors of Iceland.
And Icelandic bread (of course!).
Talking of breads, Iceland offers a wide variety of treats. After a short Ice age period, Iceland paved the way to add signature breads to its food’s chart. The menu includes many items such as Laufabraud, Flatkaka, and Rugbraud. Laufabraud or leaf bread is a thin flatbread made for Christmas. Wheareas Rugbraud is a sweet thick bread buried next to a hot spring to bake. Some say it is the perfect serving next to Plokkfiskur.
Ready to visit? I mean, to eat?
Regardless what you will decide to have, spoil your taste buds. Yet before, enrich your local knowledge and devour as much information as you can. Eating is amazing, tasting it with its history is way better. On this note, I will leave you with an interesting article on the Icelandic culture. Bonus point, it also happens to be a detailed guide to Iceland cuisine and local delicacies.
Further readings:
- Iceland travel guide, everything you need to know.
- Iceland winter road trip – One week itinerary exploring the South Coast.
- Iceland road trip – Car rental explained and simplified.
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