Discover the rich culinary heritage of Norway through these 20 authentic traditional recipes. From hearty meat stews to sweet waffle cookies, and from fish-based delicacies to comforting potato dishes, this collection has something for every palate.
Norway’s cuisine is deeply rooted in its history and culture, with many dishes influenced by the country’s harsh climate and limited access to ingredients. As a result, Norwegians have developed a unique approach to cooking that emphasizes simplicity, resourcefulness, and a deep connection to nature. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Norway, exploring its most beloved recipes and sharing them with you in their original forms.
In the following pages, you’ll find everything from classic comfort foods like Norwegian Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew) and Norwegian Lapskaus (Hearty Meat and Vegetable Stew), to more exotic dishes like Norwegian Lutefisk (Lye-Cured Fish) and Norwegian Smalahove (Sheep’s Head). Whether you’re a foodie looking for new inspiration or simply interested in exploring the flavors of Norway, this collection is sure to delight.
Norwegian Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew)
A hearty and flavorful traditional Norwegian stew that combines tender lamb with sweet and tangy cabbage, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, cabbage, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to coat.
4. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or boiled potatoes.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Norwegian Kjøttkaker (Meatballs in Brown Gravy)
A classic Norwegian comfort food, kjøttkaker are tender meatballs simmered in a rich brown gravy, served with boiled potatoes and steamed vegetables. This hearty dish is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, eggs, and flour. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the gravy and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot with boiled potatoes and steamed vegetables.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Norwegian Lapskaus (Hearty Meat and Vegetable Stew)
This traditional Norwegian dish is a comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. With its rich meat broth and tender vegetables, it’s sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the meat in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in the beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Norwegian Raspeball (Potato Dumplings with Meat)
A hearty and comforting Norwegian dish, Raspeball is a classic combination of potato dumplings served with a rich meat sauce. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, and egg. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the potato mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Cook the dumplings in boiling salted water for 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.
4. While the dumplings are cooking, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic in a large skillet.
5. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve the meat sauce over the cooked raspeball.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Norwegian Lutefisk (Lye-Cured Fish)
Lutefisk is a traditional Norwegian dish that has been passed down through generations. This lye-cured fish recipe is a unique and flavorful take on the classic Scandinavian delicacy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish (such as cod or haddock), cut into small pieces
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sodium hydroxide (lye)
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Combine the fish, water, lye, and baking soda in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let sit for 24 hours.
4. Rinse the lutefisk under cold running water until the lye is removed.
5. Soak the lutefisk in cold water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
6. Cook the lutefisk by boiling it in salted water for 10-15 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (including soaking time)
Norwegian Smalahove (Sheep’s Head)
This traditional Norwegian dish is a hearty and flavorful soup made with sheep’s head, vegetables, and broth. Smalahove is a beloved comfort food in Norway, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheep’s head, cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sheep’s head pieces and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Norwegian Pinnekjøtt (Cured and Dried Lamb Ribs)
Pinnekjøtt is a traditional Norwegian dish that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe shows you how to cure and dry lamb ribs, resulting in tender, flavorful meat with a lovely texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg lamb ribs
– 250g salt
– 50g brown sugar
– 10g black pepper
– 10g allspice
– 5g mustard seeds
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, brown sugar, black pepper, allspice, and mustard seeds.
2. Rub the mixture all over the lamb ribs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
3. Place the ribs on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray, allowing air to circulate around them.
4. Let the ribs cure in the refrigerator for 5 days, turning them once a day.
5. After curing, hang the ribs in a cool, dry place (around 10°C/50°F) with good airflow. Leave them to dry for 2-3 weeks, or until they’re tender and slightly flexible.
6. Once dry, cut the ribs into smaller pieces and serve. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! Pinnekjøtt is best served as it is.
Norwegian Rømmegrøt (Sour Cream Porridge)
A traditional Norwegian breakfast dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, Rømmegrøt is a creamy porridge made with sour cream, milk, and flour. Serve warm with sugar and a pat of butter for a delightful start to the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sugar and butter for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sour cream, flour, and salt.
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the porridge thickens and comes to a simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Serve warm, with sugar and butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Norwegian Fiskeboller (Fish Balls in White Sauce)
Enjoy this traditional Norwegian comfort food, made with delicate fish balls served in a creamy white sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the chopped fish, onion, flour, egg, and milk.
2. Shape into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the fish balls to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and cooked fish balls.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Norwegian Krumkake (Traditional Waffle Cookies)
Krumkaker are traditional Norwegian waffle cookies that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These delicate treats are a staple at Norwegian celebrations and are often flavored with cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat a krumkake iron or waffle iron to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add egg, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of the hot iron.
5. Close the iron and cook for 30-45 seconds or until the krumkake is golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of krumkaker you make.
Norwegian Lefse (Potato Flatbread)
A traditional Scandinavian flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for serving with a variety of toppings.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the melted butter and mix until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on how large you want your lefse to be.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
6. Cook the lefse for 30-45 seconds on each side, until it’s crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as butter, cheese, sour cream, or smoked salmon.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per side
Norwegian Brunost (Brown Cheese)
Brunost, also known as Brown Cheese, is a traditional Norwegian cheese with a rich, caramel-like flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. This recipe allows you to make this delicious cheese at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter whole milk
– 1/4 cup rennet (vegetable or animal)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Combine the milk, rennet, and salt in a large pot. Stir gently to distribute the rennet evenly.
3. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until it has coagulated into a clean-break curd.
4. Line a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve with parchment paper and carefully pour the curd into the lined cloth.
5. Fold the edges of the cloth over the curd to form a tight package, then twist the top to seal.
6. Place the cheese in the preheated oven and bake for 4-5 hours until it has developed a golden-brown color and a strong aroma.
7. Remove the cheese from the oven and let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Norwegian Rakfisk (Fermented Fish)
Rakfisk is a traditional Norwegian delicacy made from fermented trout or char, typically served with boiled potatoes and sour cream. This recipe provides a simple guide to creating this unique and flavorful dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg trout or char fillets
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 1/4 cup salt
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cut the fish into small pieces and rinse under cold running water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the fish, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
3. Add the caraway seeds, if using.
4. Transfer the mixture to a ceramic or glass container with a wide mouth. Cover the top with cheesecloth or a clean cloth.
5. Place the container in a cool, dark place (around 15°C/59°F) for at least 6 weeks, shaking the mixture every few days.
6. After 6 weeks, rinse the rakfisk under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.
Cooking Time:
– Fermentation time: 6 weeks
– Serving time: Boil potatoes and serve with sour cream, if desired.
Norwegian Sodd (Meat and Potato Soup)
This hearty Norwegian soup is a staple of Scandinavian cuisine, made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions. Perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Norwegian Vafler (Norwegian Waffles)
Traditional Norwegian waffles, also known as vafler, are a delicious and crispy breakfast or snack option. This recipe yields light and airy waffles with a delicate flavor, perfect for serving with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– Butter, melted (for greasing the waffle iron)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cardamom (if using).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Grease the waffle iron with melted butter and pour about 1/2 cup of batter onto the center of the iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the edges start to dry and the surface is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the iron between each waffle.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the size of your waffles)
Norwegian Torsk (Poached Cod with Butter Sauce)
Experience the simplicity and elegance of traditional Norwegian cuisine with this classic recipe for poached cod served with a rich butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat water to a simmer. Poach the cod fillets for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, vinegar, and mustard; whisk until smooth.
3. Remove cod from poaching liquid and place on a plate. Spoon butter sauce over the top of each fillet.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Norwegian Klippfisk (Dried and Salted Cod)
Norwegian Klippfisk, also known as dried and salted cod, is a traditional Scandinavian dish that’s been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe brings the rich flavors of Norway to your table with just a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Klippfisk (dried and salted cod)
– 2 tbsp water
– 1 tsp white vinegar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Klippfisk under cold running water to remove excess salt.
2. Place the fish in a large bowl or pot and cover it with cold water. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to rehydrate the cod.
3. Drain the water and rinse the Klippfisk again under cold running water.
4. Cut the fish into small pieces and place them in a saucepan.
5. Add the softened butter, water, and vinegar to the saucepan. Stir until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Simmer the mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until the Klippfisk is tender.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Norwegian Kransekake (Almond Ring Cake)
This traditional Norwegian dessert is a stunning centerpiece for any celebration, with its towering ring of crispy cookies and sweet almond flavor. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this show-stopping treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together almonds, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add egg whites, mixing until a dough forms. Divide into 7-8 portions.
4. Roll each portion into a thin rope and shape into a ring on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Allow rings to cool completely before assembling the Kransekake.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes, including cooling time.
Norwegian Gravlaks (Cured Salmon with Dill)
Discover the classic Norwegian appetizer that combines the richness of salmon with the freshness of dill. This simple yet elegant recipe makes a perfect start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup salt
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp water
– 2 tbsp white vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the refrigerator to 39°F (4°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, salt, brown sugar, and water until dissolved.
3. Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish and pour the curing mixture over it.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. After curing, remove the salmon from the refrigerator and gently rinse off the cure under cold running water.
6. Pat dry with paper towels and slice into thin pieces.
7. Serve with chopped fresh dill and lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: None required! The curing process is what makes this dish special.
Norwegian Sveler (Norwegian Pancakes)
A traditional Norwegian breakfast treat that’s light, fluffy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh berries or whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth.
2. Add sugar and melted butter; mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with fresh berries or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes).
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors and hearty traditions of Norway! This article presents 20 authentic Norwegian recipes that will transport you to the fjords and mountains of Scandinavia. From comforting stews like F\u00e5rik\u00e5l (Lamb and Cabbage Stew) and Lapskaus (Hearty Meat and Vegetable Stew), to traditional treats like Krumkake (Traditional Waffle Cookies) and Brunost (Brown Cheese), these recipes showcase the country’s love for meat, fish, potatoes, and dairy. Discover the unique flavors of Norway with these 20 recipes that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied!
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