Cruising, cooking & sustainability
Ribbe, or juleribbe is one of the most iconic dishes in the traditional Norwegian kitchen. Made from pork belly, the goal is the juiciest meat with the crispiest rind. This method is by far the easiest way of getting the most spectacularly crispy rind and mouth watering meat.
This recipe for rødkål is from my Danish mother in law. Of all the variations I’ve tried, I think this is the absolute best. And it’s super easy too!
It is debatable whether this is Danish or Norwegian. We could probably throw in the Swedes in the debate as well. The matter of fact is that us Scandinavians go nuts over this little fish. Here’s your chance to figure out why!
Truth been told, she always made poppy seed horns, not bread or buns, but her grandson (that would be me) is a lazy SOB. Regardless, and however you shape them, this is super soft and fluffy bread, and perfect for a great sandwich!
Norway has never produced wine, so Gløgg with wine came from further south. Apples on the other hand…made with hard cider, apple brandy, vanilla, cardamom and citrus, this is a fantastic treat that warms the soul!
There are very few things as Christmasy as homemade Norwegian Julebrød. In fact, Julebrød means “Christmas bread”. It is traditionally made with raisins, succades & cardamom, and the addition of wort or beer makes it extra special!
These light and fluffy spherical baked snacks are a decidedly Danish, typically enjoyed around Christmas. We love to snack on these along with a mug Gløgg, a good book, and a fire going in the wood stove.
I was never impressed with the Scandinavian mulled wine called Gløgg. But that changed when I met Lea, and my father-in-law-to-be showed me how you do the damned thing! Here’s Rasmus’ killer Gløgg recipe!
Porridge was a staple in the traditional Norwegian kitchen, piss poor peasants as we were. Smørgrøt, or butter porridge, however, is the most decadent, rich and silky smooth thing you can possibly imagine.
Spain has Jamon Iberico, Italy has Parma ham, and Norway has Fenalår; one of my absolute favorite kinds of cured meats. It’s incredibly flavorful, and actually pretty easy to make yourself too!
Another staple in the traditional Norwegian kitchen, the Flatbrød, an unleavened, wafer thin and crispy bread that was the sustenance for centuries. We still love it to this day!
Fiskegrateng is proper Norwegian comfort food, on par with mac and cheese, and was one of my absolute favorite dinners as a kid. This recipe is for both the classic version, and my own little twist, so read on!