10 of Scandinavia’s Strangest Bites: Unusual Foods You Must Try

Scandinavia is known for its spectacular landscapes, fascinating cultures, and innovative cuisine. While traditional foods such as meatballs, open-faced sandwiches, and fresh seafood dominate menus, a lesser-known side to Nordic gastronomy is as intriguing as it is daring. If you have an adventurous palate, Scandinavia delivers a variety of unique delicacies that challenge the conventional dining experience. From fermented fish to reindeer hearts, here are some of the most unusual foods you must try when exploring this gorgeous region!

Surströmming: Sweden’s Infamous Fermented Herring

Photo by Paul Einerhand on Unsplash

Surströmming may be the most notorious dish in all of Scandinavia. This Swedish delicacy consists of Baltic herring that has been fermented for months, resulting in a highly pungent aroma. Traditionally eaten with crispbread, potatoes, and onions, it is best enjoyed outdoors thanks to its overpowering scent. Despite its strong smell, many locals consider it a delicacy with a unique, savory taste. Hold your breath before opening the can if you dare to try it!

Lutefisk: A Norwegian Holiday Staple

Lutefisk is a dried white fish, typically cod, that is rehydrated in a lye solution before being cooked. This process gives it a jelly-like texture that’s both unusual and intriguing. Popular in Norway, Sweden, and parts of Finland, lutefisk is often served with boiled potatoes, peas, and white sauce. While its texture can be off-putting to some, it remains a beloved holiday dish. Those embarking on Norway tours may find this unique dish on the menu during the festive season.

Smalahove: Norway’s Sheep Head Speciality

For the truly adventurous, smalahove is a must-try. This traditional Norwegian dish features a sheep’s head split in half, dried, and then either boiled or steamed. It is usually served with mashed potatoes and rutabaga. Historically, smalahove was a dish eaten by people experiencing poverty, but today, it is considered a delicacy enjoyed by those seeking a taste of authentic Norwegian cuisine. The cheek and tongue are particularly prized for their tender texture and rich flavor.

Reindeer Heart: A Delicacy from the Arctic

In northern Scandinavia, particularly among the Sami people, reindeer heart is a prized dish. This lean, rich meat is typically smoked or grilled and is considered one of the finest cuts of the animal. It is often eaten during festive meals or special occasions and provides a deeply gamey flavor. Travelers taking tours to Scandinavia might have the opportunity to try this delicacy at a traditional Sami camp, offering an authentic taste of the Arctic.

Hakarl: Iceland’s Fermented Shark

Hakarl, or fermented Greenland shark, is one of Iceland’s most infamous culinary traditions. The preparation involves burying the shark in the ground for several weeks to allow the toxic compounds to break down before drying it for several months. The result is a dish with a strong ammonia-like smell and an intense flavor. Locals recommend you try it with a shot of Brennivín, Iceland’s signature schnapps, to help wash it down. This dish is not for the faint-hearted but is a rite of passage for those exploring Icelandic cuisine.

Blood Pancakes: A Finnish and Swedish Classic

Blood pancakes, known as blodpudding in Sweden and veriohukainen in Finland, are made by mixing animal blood (typically from pigs) with flour, milk, and spices before frying them into thick pancakes. Often served with lingonberry jam, this dish has a rich, iron-like flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the berries. Despite its unusual main ingredient, blood pancakes are a staple of Nordic cuisine and are highly nutritious.

Räkor Med Dillsås: A Swedish Delight with a Twist

While shrimp dishes are common across Scandinavia, Sweden offers a unique variation called räkor med dillsås, or shrimp with dill sauce. This dish is distinctive because the shrimp is usually served raw or lightly cured, giving it a soft and translucent texture. Combining fresh seafood with dill and mustard-based sauce creates a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor profile.

Tunnbrödsrulle: Sweden’s Unusual Hot Dog

At first glance, tunnbrödsrulle might look like a typical street food snack, but its ingredients set it apart. This Swedish fast food item consists of a soft flatbread wrapped around a hot dog, mashed potatoes, shrimp salad, and mustard. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a curious but delicious meal. Whether you’re exploring Stockholm’s food scene or venturing into rural Sweden, tunnbrödsrulle is an unexpected treat worth sampling.

Rakfisk: Norway’s Fermented Trout

Similar to surströmming, rakfisk is a Norwegian specialty featuring trout that has been fermented for up to a year. The result is a pungent fish with a soft texture and intense flavor. Typically served with flatbread, sour cream, and onions, rakfisk is a popular dish during Norway’s winter months. If you have a taste for bold flavors, this fermented delicacy is a must-try.

Which Would You Try?

Scandinavia’s cuisine offers a fascinating insight into the region’s history, culture, and ingenuity. While many of these dishes might seem unusual to outsiders, they hold deep cultural significance and provide a unique gastronomic adventure. Whether you’re exploring Sweden’s street food, sampling Norway’s preserved meats, or braving Iceland’s fermented shark, embracing these strange bites is a memorable way to experience the authentic flavors of Scandinavia. So, if you’re planning a Nordic adventure, step out of your comfort zone and try these culinary curiosities!

Featured image by Jay Wennington on Unsplash