Delicacies to try in Iceland
First things first, I have to admit, in all honesty, that I’m not necessarily an adventurous eater. When I’m abroad, I always look at what the local dishes and delicacies are, but there’s a good chance I’ll skip them.
The same goes for Iceland, where I was last month. This country had been on my bucket list for a long time, so I decided to take matters into my own hands and surprise my best friend with a trip. An incredibly good plan (if I do say so myself), with lots of anticipation: I was dizzy with all the beautiful accommodations on booking.com. So you’ll understand that I spent hours browsing there (handy: I eventually also booked my ticket through them, I had no idea that was possible).
And is it worth recommending? Well, absolutely. The country: beautiful. The people: so kind. The local cuisine: I didn’t dare try it. HAHA. Even though I think reindeer meat could be very tasty — because it’s one of the local specialties. If you’re heading to Iceland (do it! I already want to go back), which of these delicacies will you try?
Icelandic delicacies for adventurous eaters
1. Hákarl
In other words, fermented shark. To be a little more specific: the meat of the skin of Greenland sharks. These are sharks that can live to be 300 years old and live deep on the ocean floor. It sounds rather sad that they are then slaughtered for this delicacy, but nowadays hunting these animals is no longer very active. I’m not brave enough to try this one, by the way — be sure to let me know what it tastes like if you’re a little braver. One quick side note: the Icelandic authorities advise against eating shark, whale and ray meat. Hunting these animals is not encouraged.
2. Svid
A nice sheep’s head, anyone? You’ll find these especially often in January and February in Iceland, and in case you were wondering… Yes, you literally get a sheep’s head on your plate. Everything is still on it and attached, except for the brain and fleece. Bon appétit.
3. Stockfish
I didn’t come across this very often when I was in Iceland, but it’s one of the oldest traditional dishes here. Funny fact: Icelanders used to use stockfish instead of bread.
4. Tomatoes
When I received this as a tip, I briefly thought someone was joking, but no: the tomato farm near the Golden Circle (the best-known route in Iceland) really is a tourist attraction. The most famous one is in Fridheimar, and it’s genuinely fun to visit.
5. Flatkaka
The Icelandic version of flatbread. Even the most timid eater could probably handle this — along with the tomatoes. It’s mainly made from rye, so if you’re a fan of that, this is definitely worth trying!
6. Kæst skata
Ray meat, which — just like hákarl — is first matured under stones and then dried on wooden beams. This is another traditional dish that you don’t see very often on menus anymore.
7. Plokkfiskur
A mash, but instead of the familiar meatball or sausage, this one contains fish. It’s served with potatoes, onions and a white sauce.
8. Hardfiskur
Dried fish. This can be haddock, wolffish or cod. It’s quite healthy, but — and this is a big but — it really smells incredibly strong. So that’s something to keep in mind.
9. Pysla
The Icelandic version of a hot dog: made with lamb. A good snack, if I do say so myself.
