Buzz
Norway has been voted one of the most livable countries in the world. Factors contributing to this achievement include excellent welfare system, safe living environment, stable and harmonious climate, stunning landscapes, and a diverse, health-conscious cuisine.
When traveling to Norway, don't just admire the scenery; take time to indulge in the exquisite cuisine. While the flavors may seem unfamiliar at first, dare to taste, and you'll cherish the experience forever.
Grilled salmon
Grilled salmon is ubiquitous worldwide, most notably in Japan. However, its allure in Norway is equally captivating, if not exceptional. When venturing abroad to Norway, indulging in this dish is a must. Fresh, fragrant salmon, grilled to perfection and served with a special dipping sauce, is irresistibly tempting.
Grilled salmon is a culinary gem not to be missed in Norway - Image source: Unsplash
Pickled snow cod
Fish dishes dominate Norwegian cuisine. Besides grilled salmon, pickled snow cod is also renowned. The process to produce these delectable cod involves a lengthy procedure. During winter, when temperatures plummet and the outdoors freeze over, locals catch cod beneath thick ice layers, then meticulously clean and dry them. Often soaked in vinegar to reduce fishiness, the result is a tangy flavor in the fish and sauce. The special sauce, simmered to perfection, is drizzled over the cod. Pickled snow cod offers a tangy vinegar taste, combined with the spiciness of chili and rich sauce, creating a delightful and memorable flavor profile.
Pickled snow cod is perfect for those who enjoy adventurous dishes - Image: Internet
Rakfisk
Hold your reservations, hesitate not as you read on. For it's not what you think. Perhaps a dish challenging for tourists, yet a 'specialty' of Norway. Made from fresh or salted salmon, then fermented for 2-3 months in fish brine. Ultimately, the rakfisk is consumed raw after thorough washing with beer and potato liquor to exterminate bacteria. You may find yourself taken aback by the information we're about to impart, but it's the truth. Approximately 500 tons of Rakfisk are consumed in Norway annually. The dish carries a spicy taste, distinctive aroma, served with smoked meat, special dipping sauce, or sour cream. Traveling affordably to Norway, you must taste it to understand why it's so beloved by the locals.
Farikal lamb meat
Lamb meat is also a favorite dish in this land of thousand mountains. Farika dish is the common name for lamb meat served with cabbage and dried pepper. Though simple, it has a rather unique flavor, definitely worth a try.
Lamb meat is popular in Norway - Image source: Unsplash
Sheep's head Smalahove
Many tourists have shaken their heads in refusal when introduced to try the sheep's head Smalahove dish. Not because of its terrible taste, but they feel uneasy due to the appearance of the dish. Typically, they only eat the meaty part of the lamb or the hoof, few venture to eat the whole head. However, the sheep's head Smalahove dish is very common in Norway, considered a traditional dish often appearing on major holidays.
The preparation process of this dish is highly intricate, requiring meticulous attention. Sheep's head dish is often served with mashed Swedish turnips and potatoes. Enjoying a sip of wine while savoring this dish is truly exquisite.
