We have some great traditional Norwegian recipes for you today but first a little about the history of food in Norway. Officially known as the Kingdom of Norway, is located in Northern Europe, and its mainland territories include the northernmost and western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula. About two-thirds of the land in Norway is mountains with only 5% of the land being arable.
In Northern Norway, the growing season is around 100 days while in the south it’s 190 days. The farming season in Norway would be shorter if it was not for the Gulf stream. Despite that, the growing season was very short for wheat, therefore, bread was historically made from oats, barley rye, and potatoes. Some of the traditional Norwegian recipes differs between north and south, but due to the newest communication and transportation links, almost all of the ingredients for traditional Norwegian recipes has been made available throughout the country.
My 15 Favorite Traditional Norwegian Recipes
1. Norwegian Lapskaus
Norwegian Lapskaus is a traditional Norwegian dish that embodies comfort and hearty flavors. It is a thick and savory meat and vegetable stew, typically made with beef or lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions. The ingredients are slow-cooked together, allowing the flavors to meld and create a deliciously satisfying meal. Lapskaus is often enjoyed during the colder months as a warming and filling dish. It showcases the traditional flavors of Norwegian cuisine and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
2. Norwegian Christmas Cabbage
Norwegian Christmas Cabbage, also known as Julekål, is a dish enjoyed during the holiday season in Norway. It features shredded cabbage that is cooked with butter, sugar, and vinegar, resulting in a sweet and tangy flavor profile. The cabbage is simmered until tender, creating a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs well with roasted meats and other traditional Christmas foods. Norwegian Christmas Cabbage is a staple on the holiday table, adding a touch of festive cheer to the meal.
3. Norwegian Heart Shaped Waffles
Norwegian Heart-Shaped Waffles, or hjertesøte, are a delightful treat enjoyed in Norway. These waffles are known for their distinctive heart shape and crisp texture. Made with a batter consisting of flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and buttermilk, they are cooked in a heart-shaped waffle iron. The result is a deliciously golden and fluffy waffle that can be enjoyed plain, topped with powdered sugar, or served with jam, berries, or whipped cream. Norwegian Heart-Shaped Waffles are a popular choice for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
4. Norwegian Sour Cream and Raisin Pie
Norwegian Sour Cream and Raisin Pie, or rømmegrøt, is a traditional Norwegian dessert that is rich, creamy, and indulgent. The pie features a flaky crust filled with a luscious mixture of sour cream, sugar, and raisins. The filling is gently cooked until thickened and then poured into the crust. The pie is typically served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. It is a beloved dessert during festive occasions and holidays in Norway, offering a delightful combination of tangy sour cream and sweet raisins in every bite.
5. Sveler (Norwegian Pancakes)
Sveler, also known as Norwegian pancakes, are a popular treat in Norway. These fluffy and slightly sweet pancakes are made with simple ingredients like flour, eggs, sugar, and buttermilk. They are cooked on a griddle until golden brown and served warm. Sveler can be enjoyed plain or topped with jam, sour cream, or butter. They are commonly served as a snack or dessert and are a cherished part of Norwegian culinary tradition.
6. Norwegian Salmon with Dill Sauce
Norwegian Salmon with Dill Sauce is a classic dish in Norwegian cuisine. The salmon is cooked to perfection, often grilled or baked, and then served with a creamy and flavorful dill sauce. The dill sauce is made with ingredients like fresh dill, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasonings. The combination of the tender and flaky salmon with the tangy and herbaceous dill sauce creates a delightful flavor profile. It is a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the abundance of fresh seafood in Norway.
7. Norwegian Porridge or Risengrynsgrøt
Norwegian Porridge, also known as Risengrynsgrøt, is a traditional Norwegian dish enjoyed especially during the holiday season. It is a creamy and comforting rice pudding made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. The porridge is cooked slowly on the stovetop until the rice grains are tender and the mixture thickens to a smooth consistency. It is often served warm and topped with a pat of butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar, and sometimes a dollop of raspberry or strawberry jam. It is a beloved dessert or breakfast dish in Norway, enjoyed by both children and adults alike.
8. Norwegian Butter Sauce (Sandefjordsmor)
Norwegian Butter Sauce, also known as Sandefjordsmor, is a rich and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with seafood dishes. It is made by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour to create a roux. Milk is gradually added while continuously whisking until the sauce thickens. It is then flavored with lemon juice, salt, and white pepper for a tangy and savory taste. The buttery sauce is commonly served over fish, such as grilled or poached fillets, enhancing their flavor and adding a luxurious touch to the dish.
9. Farikal Recipe
Farikal is a traditional Norwegian dish made with lamb and cabbage. It is a hearty and comforting meal enjoyed during the colder months. The recipe involves layering lamb meat and bones with cabbage in a large pot, then simmering it slowly until the meat is tender and the flavors meld together. The dish is typically seasoned with salt and pepper and sometimes includes the addition of potatoes. Farikal is often served with boiled potatoes and lingonberry jam, creating a delicious combination of flavors.
10. Norwegian Rommegrot
Rommegrot is a traditional Norwegian dish known for its rich and creamy texture. It is made using simple ingredients like sour cream, flour, sugar, and butter. The dish is cooked slowly over low heat, allowing the flavors to develop and thicken. Rommegrot is often served warm, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of melted butter. It is a popular dessert or breakfast dish in Norway, enjoyed for its comforting taste and smooth consistency.
11. Norwegian Fish Cakes with Dill Mayonnaise
Norwegian fish cakes, or fiskekaker, are a beloved dish in Norway. Made with fresh white fish, potatoes, onions, and spices, these fish cakes are pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside. They are typically served with a creamy dill mayonnaise, which adds a tangy and herby flavor to the dish. The combination of tender fish, creamy potatoes, and zesty dill mayo creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Norwegian fish cakes are a delicious and satisfying meal enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
12. Epcot Norway School Bread
Epcot Norway School Bread is a popular Norwegian treat that can now be enjoyed at the Epcot theme park in Florida. This sweet bread is soft, slightly sweetened, and filled with a rich and creamy vanilla custard. Topped with a generous coating of sweet icing and shredded coconut, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The Epcot Norway School Bread is a must-try for those looking to experience a taste of Norwegian cuisine while visiting the park. It’s a delicious and indulgent treat that captures the essence of traditional Norwegian baking.
13. Oslo Kringle
Oslo Kringle is a Norwegian pastry that originated in Oslo, Norway. It is a delicious and flaky pastry made with layers of buttery dough and a sweet filling, often consisting of cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes almond paste. The dough is rolled out, filled, and then shaped into a pretzel-like shape. After baking, the pastry is typically dusted with powdered sugar. Oslo Kringle is a popular treat in Norway, enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Its delicate layers and sweet, aromatic filling make it a favorite among pastry lovers.
14. Norwegian Meatballs and Gravy
Norwegian Meatballs and Gravy, known as “kjøttboller med brunsaus” in Norwegian, is a classic dish in Norwegian cuisine. The meatballs are made from a mixture of ground beef and pork, combined with breadcrumbs, onions, and various spices. They are then fried until golden brown and served with a rich, savory brown gravy. The dish is often accompanied by boiled potatoes and lingonberry sauce, providing a delicious combination of flavors. Norwegian Meatballs and Gravy is a comforting and hearty dish that is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.
15. Norwegian Oatmeal Molasses Bread
Norwegian Oatmeal Molasses Bread, or “havrebrød” in Norwegian, is a wholesome and hearty bread that is popular in Norway. The bread is made with a combination of oats, whole wheat flour, molasses, and yeast, giving it a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It has a dense and chewy texture, making it perfect for toasting or enjoying with butter and cheese. Norwegian Oatmeal Molasses Bread is a delicious and nutritious option for breakfast or as a side with soups and stews.
