Norway Travel Tips

With Norway's extensive coastlines, seafood is a cornerstone of Norwegian cuisine. Fish such as salmon, herring, cod, and mackerel are commonly enjoyed, often prepared using traditional methods like smoking, curing, or pickling.

Wild berries, including lingonberries, cloudberries, bilberries, and raspberries, are prized ingredients in Norwegian cooking. These berries are used in a variety of dishes, from jams and sauces to desserts and beverages. Potatoes are another versatile staple, featured in dishes like creamy mashed potatoes, potato dumplings, and hearty potato soups.

Dairy products add richness to Norwegian dishes, particularly in traditional desserts and sauces. Cream, butter, and brunost, a unique sweet brown cheese, are commonly used, adding depth and flavor to meals. Root vegetables such as carrots, turnips, and rutabagas are integral to soups, stews, and roasts, providing natural sweetness and nourishment.

Wild game meats like reindeer, moose, and venison are cherished ingredients in Norwegian cuisine, especially in the northern regions. These meats are often prepared in hearty stews, roasts, or as smoked delicacies, reflecting the country's hunting traditions.

Norwegian cuisine also celebrates the bounty of the forest, with foraged ingredients like mushrooms, wild herbs, and nettles playing a prominent role in dishes. Foraging is a cherished tradition in Norway, and these ingredients add unique flavors and textures to traditional recipes.

One of Norway's most iconic dishes is fårikål, considered the national dish. This hearty stew is made with slow-cooked lamb and cabbage, seasoned with whole black peppercorns, and served with boiled potatoes. It is particularly popular in the autumn months and showcases Norway’s love for simple, wholesome ingredients.

Rakfisk is another traditional Norwegian dish that holds a special place in the country's culinary traditions. This dish consists of fermented fish, usually trout, which is salted and left to ferment for several months. Served with flatbread, sour cream, and onions, rakfisk is a delicacy often enjoyed during the winter months, particularly around Christmas.

Moving to the coastal regions, klippfisk is a beloved dish made from dried and salted cod, a method of preservation that dates back centuries. This fish is often rehydrated and used in a variety of dishes, such as bacalao, a tomato-based stew with potatoes and olives, reflecting Norway’s historical connection to the sea.

Another staple of Norwegian cuisine is kjøttkaker, which are traditional meatcakes similar to meatballs. Made from a mixture of minced meat, onions, and spices, these meatcakes are typically served with boiled potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry jam, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.

In the northern regions of Norway, reindeer stew, or bidos, is a dish deeply connected to the indigenous Sámi culture. Made with tender reindeer meat, root vegetables, and a rich broth, bidos is often served at special occasions and community gatherings, reflecting the importance of reindeer in Sámi tradition.

Lutefisk, a dish made from dried fish (usually cod) that has been rehydrated in a lye solution, is another traditional Norwegian delicacy. While its gelatinous texture and strong flavor may be an acquired taste, lutefisk is a popular dish during the Christmas season, often served with potatoes, peas, and bacon.

Rømmegrøt is a traditional sour cream porridge that is often served during festive occasions. Made from sour cream, flour, and milk, and topped with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon, this dish is a rich and creamy treat that has been enjoyed by Norwegians for generations.

One of the most popular street food items in Norway is the pølse, a classic Norwegian hot dog that rivals any in Scandinavia. Found at kiosks and food stands throughout the country, pølse is typically served in a soft lompe, a type of potato flatbread, or in a regular bun. Toppings often include crispy onions, pickled cucumbers, mustard, and ketchup, creating a satisfying and quick meal that is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Another street food favorite in Norway is the kebab, which, like in other Nordic countries, has become a staple of the late-night food scene. The Norwegian version often features tender, marinated meat—either lamb, chicken, or beef—wrapped in a soft pita or flatbread, accompanied by fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, and topped with a variety of sauces, such as garlic sauce, chili sauce, or a creamy yogurt-based dressing.

In the bustling streets of Oslo, fiskekaker or fish cakes are a common sight. These are made from minced fish, usually a mix of white fish like cod or haddock, mixed with potatoes and spices, and then fried until golden. Served with a dollop of remoulade or tartar sauce and a side of pickles, fiskekaker are a delicious nod to Norway’s fishing heritage.

Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread made from potatoes, flour, butter, and milk, is another popular street food item. Often spread with butter and sprinkled with sugar or cinnamon, lefse is rolled up and enjoyed as a sweet snack. In some variations, it can also be filled with savory ingredients like smoked salmon or cured meats, making it a versatile treat for any time of day.

For those with a sweet tooth, vafler (Norwegian waffles) are a beloved street food option. Unlike Belgian waffles, Norwegian waffles are thinner, softer, and heart-shaped, typically served with a variety of toppings such as sour cream, jam, or brunost (Norwegian brown cheese). They are a comforting and delicious snack, perfect for enjoying on the go while exploring the scenic streets of Norway.

One of the most beloved desserts in Norway is krumkake, a delicate waffle cookie that is rolled into a cone shape while still warm. Often filled with whipped cream or berries, krumkake is a traditional treat during the Christmas season but can be enjoyed year-round. Its light, crispy texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite for special occasions and everyday indulgence alike.

Another classic Norwegian dessert is bløtkake, a layered sponge cake that is a staple at celebrations and family gatherings. This moist and airy cake is typically filled with whipped cream and fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, and often topped with more cream and fruit for a festive appearance. The use of fresh, local ingredients gives bløtkake its irresistible flavor and makes it a highlight of any Norwegian dessert table.

Norway’s love for berries also shines in rømmegrøt, a rich and creamy porridge made from sour cream, flour, and milk. Traditionally served with a sprinkle of sugar and a dollop of butter, rømmegrøt is often accompanied by fresh berries like lingonberries or cloudberries, adding a tart contrast to the creamy sweetness of the porridge. This dessert is especially popular during festive occasions and is a comforting treat that reflects Norway’s rustic culinary roots.

Multekrem, a dessert made from cloudberries and whipped cream, is another Norwegian favorite. Cloudberries, which are prized for their rarity and unique flavor, are gently folded into the whipped cream to create a light and refreshing dessert that is both elegant and simple. Multekrem is often served during the Christmas season and is a cherished part of Norway’s holiday traditions.

For those who enjoy the combination of sweet and savory, brunost ice cream offers a unique taste experience. Brunost, or Norwegian brown cheese, has a caramel-like flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the creamy texture of ice cream. This innovative dessert showcases Norway’s culinary creativity and is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the country’s diverse dessert offerings.