10+ Best Norwegian Recipes You Need To Try Once

Norway is a land of breathtaking fjords, northern lights, and a culinary tradition that’s as rich as its history.

If you’re a foodie looking to explore something new, Norwegian cuisine is a treasure trove of hearty, comforting, and downright delicious dishes.

From savory stews to sweet treats, these recipes are packed with flavors that’ll transport you straight to the cozy kitchens of Norway.

Ready to dive into a world of Nordic goodness? Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, these Norwegian recipes are a must-try.

1. Norwegian Meatballs (Kjøttkaker)

Norwegian meatballs, or kjøttkaker, are the ultimate comfort food.

Think of them as the Norwegian cousin of Swedish meatballs, but with their own unique twist.

These juicy, flavorful meatballs are often served with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, and lingonberry sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground lamb (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp butter (for frying)

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, lamb, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into small, flat meatballs.
4. Heat butter in a pan and fry the meatballs until golden brown on both sides.
5. Serve with mashed potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry sauce.

Why We Chose It:
This dish is a staple in Norwegian households and embodies the simplicity and heartiness of Nordic cuisine.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

2. Norwegian Salmon Soup (Laks suppe)

If you love seafood, this creamy Norwegian salmon soup is a game-changer.

Packed with fresh salmon, vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s the perfect dish for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh salmon, cut into chunks
• 4 cups fish stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 leek, sliced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Melt butter in a pot and sauté leeks until soft.
2. Add carrots and potatoes, cooking for 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir well.
4. Pour in fish stock and bring to a boil. Simmer until veggies are tender.
5. Add salmon chunks and cook for 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

Why This Made It to Our List:
This soup is a celebration of Norway’s love for seafood. It’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

3. Norwegian Flatbread (Flatbrød)

Flatbrød is a traditional Norwegian flatbread that’s crispy, versatile, and perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or even cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup water
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

How to Make It:

1. Mix flours and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add water and knead into a firm dough.
3. Roll out the dough thinly on a floured surface.
4. Cut into circles or squares and prick with a fork.
5. Bake at 400°F for 5-7 minutes or until crisp.
6. Brush with melted butter while warm.

Why We Selected It:
This bread is a Norwegian classic that’s easy to make and pairs well with almost anything.

4. Norwegian Pancakes (Pannekaker)

These thin, crepe-like pancakes are a Norwegian favorite, often enjoyed with jam, sugar, or fresh berries.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Butter for frying

How to Make It:

1. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
2. Gradually add flour and mix until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick pan and melt a little butter.
4. Pour a ladle of batter into the pan, swirling to coat evenly.
5. Cook until golden on both sides.
6. Serve with your favorite toppings.

Why We Chose It:
These pancakes are simple, delicious, and a hit with both kids and adults.

5. Norwegian Potato Dumplings (Raspeballer)

Also known as komle or klubb, these potato dumplings are hearty and filling.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg

How to Make It:

1. Squeeze excess moisture from grated potatoes.
2. Mix with flour, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Shape into balls and boil in salted water for 30-40 minutes.
4. Serve with butter, bacon, or sausage.

Why This Made It to Our List:
These dumplings are a Norwegian comfort food classic that’s both simple and satisfying.

6. Norwegian Cinnamon Buns (Kanelboller)

These sweet, fluffy buns are a Norwegian favorite, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup milk, warmed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 tsp cardamom
• 1/2 cup butter (for filling)
• 1/2 cup sugar (for filling)
• 2 tbsp cinnamon

How to Make It:

1. Mix yeast, milk, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, melted butter, and cardamom. Knead into a dough.
3. Let the dough rise for 1 hour.
4. Roll out the dough and spread with butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Roll up, slice, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Why We Chose It:
These buns are a sweet treat that’s impossible to resist.

7. Norwegian Fish Cakes (Fiskekaker)

These crispy fish cakes are a staple in Norwegian cuisine, often served with potatoes and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb white fish fillets
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• Butter for frying

How to Make It:

1. Blend fish, flour, milk, egg, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
2. Shape into patties and fry in butter until golden.
3. Serve with boiled potatoes and veggies.

Why This Made It to Our List:
These fish cakes are a delicious way to enjoy Norway’s seafood tradition.

8. Norwegian Rice Pudding (Risgrøt)

This creamy rice pudding is a Norwegian favorite, often enjoyed with cinnamon and sugar.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Cinnamon for topping

How to Make It:

1. Cook rice in milk until soft and creamy.
2. Stir in sugar and vanilla.
3. Serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Why We Chose It:
This dessert is simple, comforting, and oh-so-delicious.

9. Norwegian Lamb Stew (Fårikål)

Known as Norway’s national dish, this lamb and cabbage stew is hearty and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb, cut into chunks
• 1 head cabbage, chopped
• 4 cups water
• 1 tbsp whole black peppercorns
• Salt to taste

How to Make It:

1. Layer lamb and cabbage in a pot.
2. Add water, peppercorns, and salt.
3. Simmer for 2-3 hours until tender.
4. Serve with boiled potatoes.

Why This Made It to Our List:
This stew is a true taste of Norway’s culinary heritage.

10. Norwegian Waffles (Vaffler)

These heart-shaped waffles are a Norwegian classic, often enjoyed with jam or sour cream.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

How to Make It:

1. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add eggs, milk, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Cook in a waffle iron until golden.
4. Serve with your favorite toppings.

Why We Chose It:
These waffles are a fun and delicious treat that’s perfect for any time of day.

11. Norwegian Cloudberry Cream (Multekrem)

This dessert is a luxurious blend of cloudberries and whipped cream.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cloudberries (or substitute with raspberries)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp sugar

How to Make It:

1. Whip cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Gently fold in cloudberries.
3. Chill before serving.

Why This Made It to Our List:
This dessert is a unique and indulgent way to end a meal.

Conclusion

Norwegian cuisine is a delightful mix of simplicity, flavor, and tradition.

These recipes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring Nordic food.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, pick a recipe, and start cooking.