Recently, while on a trip to Iceland, I had the opportunity to indulge in some of the country’s most well-known dishes and learn more about how they prepare each dish and its significance. Icelandic cuisine is deeply rooted in the island's history and environment. From traditional fare like fermented shark (hákarl) and lamb soup (kjötsúpa) to modern interpretations of seafood and dairy products, the food reflects Iceland's connection to the sea, the land, and its rich Viking heritage. Each dish I got to eat offered a glimpse into Iceland's culture and the history of its people, making the food not only delicious but fascinating.
The Icelandic Hot Dog:
Despite the long list of fine delicacies that can be found in Iceland, they are by far best known for their simple yet delicious hotdog, preferably ordered with everything on it. It is a simple everyday food that has been perfected with the meat being a perfect blend of lamb, pork, and beef, hot dog sauce, and sweet mustard with a mix of raw and homemade, crispy onions placed underneath the meat that completes the hot dog with a perfect crunchiness. The most infamous hot dog stand is Bæjarins Beztu, which translates to “best in town.” This famous stand is located in Reykjavík and will always be found with a line wrapped around the block.
Kjötsúpa:
Kjötsúpa, Icelandic lamb soup, may not be a common meal in America, but it’s a staple in most Icelandic households. Due to the consistently frigid temperatures that Iceland experiences, Kjötsúpa is the perfect comfort food to warm you up. It’s available in most restaurants across the island and is primarily made up of lamb, which serves as both the meat and base for the broth. A mix of vegetables, such as carrots, onions, and potatoes, as well as spices, such as rosemary and thyme, are thrown into the mix to add more flavor to the dish. Traditionally, it’s served with a warm piece of bread on the side. Another type of soup that is popular in Iceland is mushroom soup.
Salmon on Rye Bread:
This dish, from a local restaurant in Reykjavík, is a simple combination of homemade butter, fresh salmon, and pickled onions, all served atop a piece of rye bread. It represents a lot of different aspects of Iceland’s culinary scene, with rye bread being a must-try while visiting Iceland due to both its sensational flavor and unique history. Iceland has numerous hot springs scattered across the country, which have played a role in baking. There is a traditional baking method where you can bury pots of bread dough in the ground near the springs, allowing the natural heat to bake the rye bread. While this practice isn’t used as much as it once was, it’s a cherished tradition that Iceland visitors can experience.