John Myers
Introduction: Traditional Norwegian snacks and appetizers
Norwegian cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, hearty stews, and rich desserts. However, the country also offers a variety of delicious snacks and appetizers that are perfect for a quick bite or as part of a larger meal. These snacks are often made with simple ingredients and traditional cooking methods, making them both satisfying and authentic.
Smoked salmon: A popular Norwegian delicacy
Smoked salmon is a staple of Norwegian cuisine and can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. The fish is typically cold-smoked, giving it a delicate and smoky flavor that pairs well with cream cheese, crackers, and fresh herbs. One popular way to enjoy smoked salmon in Norway is on a slice of bread with scrambled eggs and chives, known as “røykelaks og eggerøre”. Another classic dish is “gravlaks”, which is cured salmon served with a mustard-dill sauce.
Norwegian brown cheese: A unique and flavorful snack
Norwegian brown cheese, or “brunost”, is a sweet and savory cheese made from goat’s milk and cow’s milk. The cheese is cooked until it caramelizes, giving it a unique brown color and a sweet, nutty flavor. Brown cheese is often served on crispbread or Norwegian flatbread, and pairs well with jams and fruits. One popular appetizer is “brunost og tyttebær”, which is brown cheese served with lingonberry jam.
Lefse: A traditional Norwegian flatbread
Lefse is a soft and thin Norwegian flatbread made from potatoes, flour, and butter. The bread is rolled out and cooked on a griddle, giving it a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Lefse is often served with butter and sugar, or with savory fillings such as smoked salmon or brown cheese. In Norway, lefse is a popular Christmas treat and is often served with traditional holiday foods such as lutefisk and meatballs.
Rakfisk: A fermented fish dish with a strong aroma
Rakfisk is a traditional Norwegian dish made from fermented fish, typically trout or char. The fish is salted and left to ferment for several months, giving it a strong aroma and a pungent flavor. Rakfisk is often served on flatbread or crackers with sour cream and onions. While it may not be for everyone, rakfisk is a unique and authentic Norwegian snack that is worth trying if you are feeling adventurous.
Krumkake: A sweet and crispy Norwegian treat
Krumkake is a thin and crispy Norwegian wafer cookie that is often filled with whipped cream or jam. The cookie is made by cooking a batter on a specialized krumkake iron, giving it a beautiful patterned design. Krumkake is a popular holiday treat in Norway and is often served alongside other Christmas cookies and sweets. It is also a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Norway and is often sold in gift shops and bakeries.
