Historically, Icelanders ate everything that moved. The Icelanders could not and did not know how to grow enough food on a stone island, so they ate everything.
Nowadays, there are plenty of products from Europe and from all over the world in Icelandic shops, but Icelanders are pretty strongly committed to tradition.
They have a saying: "My grandfather ate shark, my father ate shark, and I eat shark."
Hakarl: Fermented Shark
One notable dish in the cuisine of Iceland is fermented shark, also known as Hakarl. This dish is prepared using Greenland shark, which is initially buried in the ground for several months and then left to dry also for several months. Despite its strong fragrance, Icelanders eat this at Christmas. But there is no guarantee that they eat a piece of shark only to drink a shot of Brennivín afterward, a traditional Icelandic schnapps.
Svið: Sheep's Head
Svið, also known as sheep's head, is a traditional Icelandic dish that showcases the unique cuisine of Iceland.
The sheep's head is typically boiled and served whole, with the brain, eyes, and other parts intact. While the meat from the sheep's head can be tender and flavorful, the sight of a whole head on a plate can be daunting for those unaccustomed to such culinary experiences.
The sheep's head is sold all year round in the store in the frozen meat department; it is noteworthy that the sheep's head, cut into 2 parts, is sold in a transparent bag.
Blood Pudding
Blood pudding, known as blóðmör in Icelandic, is a dish made from animal blood, usually, sheep's or pig's blood, mixed with fat and various grains or potatoes. The mixture is then stuffed into casings and cooked until firm. While blood pudding is a common dish in many cultures, its distinct flavor and texture can be off-putting to those not accustomed to consuming blood-based dishes. The cuisine of Iceland truly showcases the distinct flavors and culinary traditions of this beautiful country.
Flatbrauð: Traditional Icelandic Bread
Flatbrauð, a traditional Icelandic bread that is commonly enjoyed with a variety of dishes, holds an important place in the cuisine of Iceland. It is made from a mix of rye flour, whole wheat flour, and sometimes oats. The bread is typically thin and crisp, with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It is a staple in Icelandic cuisine and pairs well with smoked fish, butter, and other traditional toppings.
Flatbrauð is typically cooked on a hot stove burner or electric hot plates. The dough is made by mixing rye flour with lukewarm water and kneading it into a ball. The cakes are then rolled out and cooked on a crepes pan until they are dark with a characteristic pattern from the pan. The bread can be dipped in cold water and stacked together under a damp cloth to keep them soft. Flatbrauð is typically served with butter and slices of smoked leg of lamb or lamb liver paté, but it can also be served with other toppings such as hangikjöt, smoked salmon, or pickled sweet herring.
Whale Meat
The cuisine of Iceland is known for its controversial aspects, including the consumption of whale meat. While it has been a part of Icelandic tradition for centuries, the consumption of whale meat is highly debated due to conservation concerns. However, for those who are open to trying it, whale meat has a distinct flavor and texture that sets it apart from other types of meat.
Plokkfiskur: Icelandic Mashed Potato with Fish
Plokkfiskur is a hearty dish that showcases the simplicity of Icelandic cuisine. This traditional icelandic dish combines mashed potatoes with mashed fish, usually cod or haddock. The dish is often seasoned with onions, butter, and various herbs and spices. Plokkfiskur has a creamy texture and a delicate flavor that showcases the simplicity and freshness of Icelandic ingredients.
It doesn't sound disgusting, but very tasty. It all depends on how it is prepared. This dish can be equally delicious and disgusting.
Conclusion
While the cuisine of Iceland may be considered disgusting by some, it is crucial to approach it with an open mind and an appreciation for historical influences that have shaped it. Icelandic cuisine offers a unique culinary experience, showcasing the resourcefulness and adaptability of the Icelandic people in the face of challenging conditions.
While some may consider Icelandic cuisine disgusting, others see it as an opportunity to explore unique flavors and culinary traditions.
Which of these dishes would you try? Don't hesitate to share your pick in the comments below! It will be interesting.
