Norway is not only known for its natural beauty, its breathtaking fjords, stunning mountains and, of course, the Northern Lights. It’s also well known for its cuisine, and a dish that particularly stands out is fårikål, Norway’s national dish. If you’re keen to experience traditional Norwegian food, there’s no better place to start.
Read on to discover all you need to know about this delicious delicacy: what it is, how to prepare it, when to eat it, and the best places to enjoy it in Norway. So, get your flight booked and look into booking a local hotel or hiring a motorhome in Norway and tasting Norway food – get ready for the culinary adventure of a lifetime!
What is fårikål?
By now you must be wondering, what is fårikål? What does the dish consist of, what is its history, and what ingredients does it include?
A traditional Norwegian dish, fårikål has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. With roots in Norwegian peasant cuisine – where simple, hearty ingredients form the basis of dishes – this humble dish consists of just two key ingredients: lamb and cabbage.
While fårikål can be enjoyed year-round, it’s often eaten as a celebratory dish to mark a special occasion or holiday.
How to make fårikål
Fårikål(Traditional Norwegian dish)
Ingredients
- 1 kg lamb preferably on-the-bone
- 1 large cabbage
- Water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut the lamb into pieces and the cabbage into quarters.
- Place a layer of cabbage in a large pot, followed by a layer of lamb, repeating until you’ve used up all the ingredients.
- Cover the ingredients with water, and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender and the cabbage is cooked through.
Notes
- Use good quality lamb to ensure the best possible flavour
- Always use fresh (rather than frozen) cabbage
What to serve with fårikål
While fårikål is a complete dish that’s usually eaten on its own, you can pair it with other foods if you’ve got a big appetite, or perhaps just fancy taking the dish to the next level.
Side dishes that work well alongsidefårikål include classic boiled potatoes – the traditional accompaniment – alongside rye bread, a traditional Norwegian bread that’s ideal for soaking up the fårikål sauce.
When to eat fårikål
Fårikål is an occasional dish, as opposed to a dish that’s eaten often. It’s more than just a dish; this celebratory meal is a real experience, best enjoyed during holidays and special times. During autumn, for example, fårikål is especially popular because lamb is at its best, and cabbage is fresh and plentiful.
Best places to eat fårikål in Norway
As Norway’s national dish, fårikål has been a beloved comfort food for generations. Many restaurants serve this hearty lamb and cabbage stew, offering an authentic taste of Norwegian tradition. If you’re visiting Norway, don’t miss the chance to try fårikål at one of these highly recommended spots.
Oslo
Norway’s capital is home to several restaurants serving traditional fårikål, but one of the most highly recommended is Stortorvets Gjæstgiveri. Set in an 18th century building, this historic restaurant is known for its classic Norwegian cuisine and cosy atmosphere.
Bergen
For a traditional dining experience with stunning harbour views, head to Bryggeloftet & Stuene in Bergen. This well-loved restaurant specialises in authentic Norwegian dishes, including fårikål – and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try reindeer!
Trondheim
In Trondheim, Baklandet Skydsstation is the place to go for homemade fårikål in a charming, historic setting. This cosy café is known for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional Norwegian comfort food, making it a perfect spot to enjoy this classic dish.
Fun facts about fårikål
- Fårikål was officially declared Norway’s national dish in 1972 after a public vote.
- Traditionally, whole black peppercorns are left in the dish, so diners have to be mindful while eating.
- The name “fårikål” literally translates to “mutton in cabbage” in Norwegian.
Fårikål is more than just a dish; it is an experience that connects you with Norwegian culture and tradition. Whether you try it in a restaurant in Oslo or prepare it at home, you’re bound to love it.
Have you ever tried fårikål? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.