Iceland, a land of astonishing natural wonders and enchanting landscapes, offers intrepid travellers not only breathtaking views but also a rich and diverse culinary scene that is sure to tantalise taste buds. Icelandic cuisine, deeply rooted in the island's heritage and culture, features distinctive flavours and ingredients that reflect the nation's resourcefulness and resilience in the face of its unique geographical challenges.
In this Foodie's Guide to Unique Delicacies and Where to Find Them, we journey through Iceland's gastronomic landscape, diving into the delectable world of traditional and modern dishes that define the nation’s culinary identity. From freshly caught seafood to free-roaming lamb, exotic delicacies to contemporary interpretations, join us as we whet your appetite and reveal the best places to savour the true essence of Icelandic cuisine. So, loosen your belts and get ready for a scrumptious and immersive exploration of Iceland's enticing and unforgettable gourmet offerings.
Icelanders have long depended on the surrounding cold North Atlantic waters for sustenance, and this bond is evident in the variety of seafood dishes that grace Icelandic menus. Here, we introduce two Icelandic seafood classics and a couple of must-visit locations for a truly unforgettable sea-to-table dining experience.
Plokkfiskur: This traditional fish stew combines boiled fresh catch (usually cod or haddock) with potatoes, onions, and a rich béchamel sauce, delivering a hearty and comforting dish perfect for warding off the evening chill. Visit Tjöruhúsið in Ísafjörður for a mouth-watering rendition of this Icelandic favourite.
Harðfiskur: This dried fish jerky, typically made from haddock, cod, or wolffish, is a staple snack and an ideal accompaniment to thick buttered slices of homemade Icelandic rye bread. Pop by FISK at Reykjavik's Grandi Mathöll food hall to try some delectable harðfiskur alongside other seafood delicacies.
As a nation built on farming, Iceland’s culinary tradition leans heavily on the use of free-roaming lamb as a quintessential ingredient. Icelandic lamb, widely regarded for its tender texture and flavourful herbaceous notes, reflects the rich grazing meadows that the local sheep enjoy during the summer months.
Hangikjöt: This smoked Icelandic lamb is a festive favourite, typically enjoyed during Christmas and the Þorrablót mid-winter festivals. Gently smoked using local birch wood and dried sheep dung, hangikjöt is usually served in thin slices, either hot or cold. For an opportunity to try this dish, head to Reykjavik's Three Coats restaurant, which features a modern reinterpretation of it served with pickles and Icelandic flatbread.
Before you step out into Iceland's dramatic landscapes, indulge in some heart-warming comfort food. Dive into traditional dishes that have kept Icelanders energised and content for generations.
Pylsur: Offering a nostalgic taste of home, Icelandic hotdogs, or pylsur, are a mouth-watering fusion of tender lamb, beef, and pork, paired with an enticing medley of condiments, including crispy fried onions, sweet mustard, and ketchup. For a taste of Iceland’s most revered hot dog, visit the iconic Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur stand in central Reykjavik, where both tourists and locals flock for a flavourful feast.
Rúgbrauð: This dense, dark, and slightly sweet rye bread is traditionally baked in the ground using geothermal heat from nearby volcanic hot springs. The perfect accompaniment to fish, lamb, or simply spread with butter, Rúgbrauð is a cornerstone of Icelandic daily fare. To taste authentic Icelandic rúgbrauð, visit Laugarvatn Fontana, where guided geothermal bakery tours offer a glimpse of the underground baking process, followed by a chance to sample the freshly baked bread.
No Icelandic food journey would be complete without sampling some of the more exotic delicacies that showcase the nation's culinary ingenuity and versatility.
Hákarl: An acquired taste for many, hákarl is a fermented Greenland shark, typically hung to dry for several months before being served in bite-sized cubes. Though the aroma can be quite pungent, for those looking to test their gastronomic limits, a visit to Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum near Stykkishólmur offers an authentic farm-to-table experience alongside fascinating insights into the traditional preparation methods.
Finally, for those with a sweet tooth, feast on two of Iceland’s cherished desserts that offer both comfort and indulgence in equal measure.
Skyr: This thick and velvety-smooth Icelandic dairy product, similar in texture to Greek yoghurt, is made from skimmed milk and enjoyed either plain or sweetened with honey, fresh berries, or fruit compote. To savour some flavoursome skyr, visit the charming C is for Cookie café in Reykjavik, where skyr-based desserts are a delightful treat.
Pönnukaka: A deliciously thin and slightly sweet Icelandic pancake, typically filled with fruit preserves, whipped cream, and a sprinkling of sugar. Visit the quaint Mamma Steina café in Reykjavik for a memorable pönnukaka experience steeped in nostalgic comfort.
As our epicurean journey through Iceland's culinary heritage comes to an end, it's evident that the island's diverse and intriguing flavours reflect not only the nation's resourcefulness but also its deep-rooted appreciation for sustainability, authenticity, and tradition. From mouth-watering seafood to free-roaming lamb, bizarre bites to delectable desserts, Iceland's unique gastronomic offerings cater to the adventurous taste buds of food lovers worldwide.
If you're eager to discover these captivating culinary experiences for yourself, allow the experts at Slice of Iceland to guide you on your personalised foodie adventure with their incredible Icelandinc tours. As a tour connector partnering with Tourdesk, Slice of Iceland can offer you access to unforgettable tours and dining experiences that showcase Iceland's palate-pleasing treasures. Bon appétit, or as they say in Icelandic, Verði þér að góðu - may it do you good!
