Greetings, fellow food adventurers! 🌍🌟 Rosy here, your go-to guide. Today, we will talk about the best food in Iceland, which you can try in your next visit. You might think this chilly land is all about volcanic landscapes and the Northern Lights, but let me tell you—its food scene is a treasure. From savoring the freshest seafood to delighting dishes, Iceland offers a culinary experience. If you are one of the picky eaters, you will also get many options to try. So, pack your bags and get ready to taste mouthwatering foods.
Bon appétit! 🍽️✨
What Is the Most Popular Food in Iceland?
When you think of Icelandic cuisine, one dish that stands out as a favorite among locals and tourists is Plokkfiskur. This traditional Icelandic fish stew is the ideal comfort food, combining simple, wholesome ingredients to create a delicious and nourishing dish. Also, you can’t leave Iceland without trying Skyr, either! It’s a thick, creamy dairy product similar to yogurt but with a unique Icelandic twist.
To give you a clear idea about these top two foods in Iceland, in the following section, I have jotted down in detail the most popular food in Iceland. Let’s have a look!
1. Plokkfiskur: Icelandic Fish Stew
This popular dish is made from boiling white fish, i.e., cod or haddock, followed by mixing potatoes, onions, and a creamy butter sauce. For better results, it is suggested that fish be boiled until it flakes apart, and to give it rich flavors, you can bind it with other ingredients. The dish is often seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of nutmeg or chives for extra flavor.
I first tasted Plokkfiskur in a family-run restaurant in Reykjavik. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and a fine place to dine in. The dish was served with a slice of dark, dense rye bread, which perfectly complemented the creamy texture of the stew. Every spoonful of Plokkfiskur brought a sense of homey comfort, making it easy to understand why it’s such a beloved dish in Iceland.
Why Is Plokkfiskur So Popular?
Plokkfiskur has deep roots in Icelandic culinary history. It was traditionally made to use leftover fish and potatoes, making it an economical and sustainable meal. But, as you can see, this dish has become a staple in many Icelandic households. Furthermore, this dish is tasty and contains high nutrients, making it healthy. As we all know, fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein; on the other hand, potatoes provide carbohydrates, while the creamy sauce adds a comforting richness without being overly heavy.
Where to Try Plokkfiskur in Iceland?
If you’re visiting Iceland, there are plenty of places to enjoy this traditional dish. Many restaurants in Reykjavik serve Plokkfiskur, each with its unique touch. Some popular spots include Café Loki, located near the famous Hallgrímskirkja church, and Matur og Drykkur, which offers a modern twist on traditional Icelandic cuisine.
2. Skyr: Iceland’s Creamy Delight
Skyr (pronounced “skeer”) is a traditional Icelandic dairy product; it’s both thick and creamy. It resembles Greek yogurt in texture, but Skyr is cheese, not yogurt. To prepare this delight, you need to heat skim milk and add live cultures, which helps to thicken the milk; eventually, it will give a tangy flavor. In addition, it is high in protein, low in fat, and contains a good amount of calcium and nutrients, which makes it a healthy delight to enjoy. Skyr is the best option if you like walking and hiking, as it will help you stay full and energetic.
How to Enjoy Skyr?
Skyr is delicious straight out of the container. But you can top your Skyr with fresh Icelandic berries like bilberries or crowberries. The natural sweetness of the berries perfectly complements the tanginess of Skyr. Or, you can blend Skyr with your favorite fruits by adding milk or juice to make it a perfect smoothie.
Where to Find Skyr?
Skyr is widely available in Iceland and can be found in almost every grocery store and café. Many brands offer Skyr various flavors, from classic plain to fruity varieties like blueberry, strawberry, and vanilla.
Whether you’re savoring it on its own, mixing it with fresh fruits, or combining it into your favorite recipes, Skyr is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Is Food Expensive in Iceland?
The short answer is yes, food in Iceland can be a bit expensive. This is because most of the ingredients are imported, and as we have an idea, the cost of living is higher in this country. However, you can still find a few reasonable places to get options, but you need to do a lot of research. I remember I wanted to have delicious bakery items on a budget. For that, I explored a lot and, in the end, landed at a reasonable bakery in Akureyri that served time the most delicious fresh bread and pastries at a reasonable price.
Another tip is to visit grocery stores like Bónus or Krónan for budget-friendly supplies. I often stocked up on local cheeses, cured meats, and bread to create my picnic lunches while exploring the breathtaking landscapes.
What Is the Traditional Food of Iceland?
So far, we have talked about the best food in Iceland, which you can try on your visit. However, it is equally important to highlight the root ingredients of the country, which will clarify the name of the traditional food in Iceland that one should try during their visit.
Icelandic cuisine has Hákarl, or fermented shark, which is one of the most famous traditional dishes. The process of cooking this dish includes burying the shark meat for several months so that it gets fermented, then again waiting for a few months until it dries up and is ready for the next cooking step. I spoke with locals, who told me it’s tough to prepare this dish. But once it’s done perfectly, you will love the ammonia-rich flavor taste. My first encounter with Hákarl was at a local food festival in Reykjavik, and the taste was intense.
Other traditional Icelandic food includes;
1. Svið (Sheep’s Head)
This dish involves boiling a sheep’s head until tender. The best combination to serve this dish is with mashed potatoes and turnips. Svið is a true testament to Icelandic resourcefulness and their tradition of using every part of the animal. Seeing a sheep’s head on a plate might be startling, but the flavor is surprisingly mild and tender.
2. Slátur (A Type of Blood Sausage)
Slátur, which translates to “slaughter,” is made from sheep’s blood, fat, and sometimes liver, all mixed with flour and oats. It’s then boiled and served as a savory dish.
3. Kjötsúpa (A Hearty Lamb Soup)
This traditional Icelandic soup has ingredients like tender lamb and root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and turnips. In addition, they use herbs to add flavors. Kjötsúpa is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up after a day of exploring. I had Kjötsúpa at a family-run guesthouse in the countryside, and the soup’s warmth, combined with the hosts’ hospitality, made it a meal to remember.
List of Unique Drinks in Iceland!
“Good food becomes great with the perfect drink—because a meal isn’t complete without a refreshing sip to go with it!”😉🍹
From personal experience, I am telling you that your Iceland visit is incomplete without trying unique beverages. From potent spirits to refreshing non-alcoholic drinks, Iceland offers something for everyone. For your reference, I have jotted down the top three unique drinks from my experience that you should try during your Icelandic adventure:
1. Brennivín
Brennivín is Iceland’s signature distilled beverage, also known as the Black Death drink. This traditional drink is made from fermented potato mash, and caraway seeds are used to flavor it. Brennivín is often enjoyed as a shot; in other words, this drink is an alternative to gin and is traditionally paired with the Hákarl (fermented shark). My first taste of Brennivín was at a local bar in Reykjavik, where the bartender explained its cultural significance. I was nervous about trying it but liked its bold flavor after a few sips.
2. Opal
For those who enjoy intense flavors, Opal is a must-try. This liquor is known for its intense licorice flavor derived from Iceland’s love of all things licorice. Opal is often enjoyed neat, but it can also be used in cocktails for an extra kick. It pairs well with citrus and mint, creating a refreshing and bold drink perfect for those chilly Icelandic evenings.
3. Icelandic Craft Beer
In recent years, Iceland has seen a surge in craft beer breweries, and it offers a wide range of unique and flavorful beers. Some popular breweries include Einstök, Borg Brugghús, and Kaldi. These breweries produce a variety of beers, from light lagers to rich stouts, each with its distinct Icelandic twist.
Exploring the craft beer scene was one of my favorite activities in Iceland, and I highly recommend visiting local breweries to taste the local beer culture.
FAQs
Is there normal food in Iceland?
Absolutely! You’ll find plenty of international cuisine in Reykjavik and other tourist areas, including pizzas, burgers, and sushi.
What kind of food do they eat in Iceland?
Icelanders enjoy a diet rich in seafood, lamb, and dairy products. It has been observed that fresh, local ingredients are key to Icelandic cuisine.
Does Iceland have food for picky eaters?
Yes, Iceland does have food for picky eaters. While traditional dishes can be adventurous, picky eaters have plenty of options. You’ll find familiar foods like pasta, pizza, and grilled meats.
Do they have vegan food in Iceland?
Yes, vegan food is widely available in Iceland, especially in Reykjavik. Many restaurants offer vegan options, and there are also dedicated vegan and vegetarian eateries.