News Explore Iceland’s Unique Cuisine: 11 Must-Try Dishes by Olivier Watson January 9, 2025 2 min 7 Discover Iceland's culinary gems with our guide to 11 unique dishes you can't miss, from hákarl to skyr. Experience the flavors of Iceland!Introduction Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes—think waterfalls, geysers, and the Northern Lights—but its culinary scene often takes a backseat. Despite its stunning natural beauty, many travelers overlook the unique flavors that characterize Icelandic cuisine. While ingredients can be limited and dining options scarce, there are certain traditional dishes that are worth seeking out during your visit. This guide explores eleven Icelandic specialties you might want to consider trying while in this extraordinary country. Hákarl One of the most notorious dishes in Iceland is hákarl, or fermented shark. More than just a meal, it’s a rite of passage for adventurous eaters. The preparation involves burying Greenland shark for several months to ferment before it’s hung to dry. This process diminishes its strong ammonia smell but doesn’t eliminate it entirely. The resulting cubes of white meat resemble sugar cubes and pack a punch in flavor and aroma. If you’re brave enough to try it, you’ll earn instant respect from locals. Flavor Profile: Strongly pungent with a chewy texture. Pairing Recommendation: Best enjoyed with a shot of Brennivín, Iceland’s signature schnapps. Harðfiskur Another traditional favorite is harðfiskur, which are dried strips of fish, typically cod or haddock. Often served with butter as a snack, these crunchy bites can also be found packaged like chips in supermarkets across Iceland. While they may not win any awards for flavor or texture, they are incredibly rich in protein and low in fat, making them a nutritious option. Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with butter for added richness. Health Benefits: High in protein and low-calorie content make them an excellent superfood choice. Fiskìsupa If you’re looking for something comforting and warm, try fiskìsupa, a hearty fish soup made primarily with cod, salmon, and shrimp along with vegetables. This thick stew is ubiquitous in Icelandic homes and restaurants alike. Main Ingredients: Cod, salmon, shrimp, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. Serving Tip: Pair it with dark bread for an authentic experience. Kjötsúpa For meat lovers, kjötsúpa is another staple dish that features tender lamb simmered to perfection along with root vegetables such as potatoes and carrots. The unique flavor of Icelandic lamb sets this soup apart from similar dishes elsewhere. Cooking Technique: Slow-cooked to enhance flavors; expect a rich broth with generous chunks of meat. Comfort Food Appeal: Ideal after exploring the cold outdoors. Hangikjöt Next on the list is hangikjöt, which refers to smoked lamb traditionally served during festive occasions such as Christmas. The smoky flavor comes from hanging the meat over birch wood smoke until fully infused. Serving Styles: Served hot or cold; often used in sandwiches or alongside potatoes. Cultural Significance: A beloved dish among locals during holiday celebrations. Photo by James Eades on Unsplash Iconic Drinks in Film: A Toast to Nostalgic Moments January 23, 2025 3 Anastasia Mancini: New President of Tuscany Wine Tourism Movement December 13, 2024 6 CeliaKè?!: The First Gluten-Free Festival in Rome 2025 January 8, 2025 6 hákarlIcelandic cuisine Olivier Watson Olivier Watson is a food and travel enthusiast, especially when it comes to rosé wine. Growing up in an ebullient atmosphere of fine culinary delights, he has traveled throughout most of the famous wine regions of the world-from quaint vineyards in Provence down to the sun-kissed hills of Napa Valley. For Olivier, the love of rosé is not only about the wine but also the memories over a glass with friends and family. previous post Beverly: Washington’s Newest AVA and Its Unique Features next post Top Restaurants in Cortina: A Culinary Guide for 2026 Sustainable Wine: My Journey from Property to Purpose February 24, 2025 Fair Match: My Surprising Take on Wine Networking February 24, 2025 San Lorenzo’s Gastronomic Shift: Is Authenticity Fading? February 24, 2025 Where to Find Healthy Yet Delicious Eats in... February 24, 2025 Discovering Herbert Hall: Kent’s Sparkling Wine Treasure February 24, 2025 Culinary Wisdom from Luca Calvani: Food, Family, and... February 24, 2025 Argea’s Bold Move: Why This Wine Acquisition Matters February 24, 2025 Unlocking Success: Why Restaurants Need More Entrepreneurs February 24, 2025 Masters of Wine 2025: Unveiling New Faces in... February 24, 2025 Loire Wines in London: A Flavorful Invitation Awaits February 24, 2025