How Did The Vikings Influence The Norwegian Cuisine, See What They Eat

Norwegian cuisine in its traditional form is made from the readily available edibles found in the continent’s mountain, wilderness, and coast.

In so many ways, Vikings played a huge role in the habits and customs in this part of the world, hence, Norwegians love for games and fish.

Here are the traditional foods popular in Norway according to Fjordtours

Pinnekjøtt

Although most often served at Christmas, Pinnekjøtt is a hearty meal of ribs of lamb on mashed kohlrabi.

Consisting of a rich and salty taste, these ribs are full of flavour and nicely balanced by the sweetness of the mashed kohlrabi.

Kjøttkaker

Kjøttkaker is a combination of seasoned minced meat with many minor ingredients such as rusk or onions.

After shaping them into small meatballs, this delightful mix is pan-fried and simmered in gravy before being served with creamy cabbage or mushy peas.

Rakfisk

Freshwater trout can be found in many landlocked pockets of Norway and this fish is fermented to create Rakfisk.

In fact, this trout is placed into wooden barrels of salt, and spruce branches are then placed on top for months on end to ferment the fillet.

When serving this delicacy, soft flatbread covered in sour cream is common, while beetroot salad also makes a nice addition

Raspeballer

After creating a nice stock with fatty cuts of pork, small balls of potato are simmered in this stock and then served with pan-fried bacon.

As a rule, this is very much a farmer’s favourite, for the mix of salt and fats can also protect the body and mind from the cold temperatures outside.

Lutefisk

Lutefisk is one of the more traditional meals in Norway. Simply put, dried cod is soaked in lye to create this festive dish and the tradition dates back to the 16th century.

After being soaked in lyre, the cod is rinsed in water several times and then the fish is served with potatoes, bacon, and mushy peas.

Pickled Herring

Another common delicacy in Norway, pickled herring is a very simple recipe in which brined herring is treated with salt and vinegar to preserve the fish.

For many visitors, the taste is quite sweet and sour, while onions and various spices can make pickled herring especially unique.