Kjötsúpa

Kjötsúpa

Kjötsúpa (KYOHT-soo-pah)

Icelandic Lamb Soup

Prep Time 20 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 346 kcal

A wholesome, hearty Icelandic lamb and vegetable soup with root vegetables and dried herbs, the quintessential comfort food of the Icelandic countryside.

Nutrition & Info

350 kcal per serving
Protein 25.0g
Carbs 30.0g
Fat 14.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

large heavy pot ladle cutting board

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep ceramic bowl

Garnishes: fresh parsley, cracked pepper

Accompaniments: rye bread, butter

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place lamb chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

  2. 2

    Add onion, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add carrots, rutabaga, and turnip. Simmer for 15 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add potatoes and cabbage. Continue simmering for 15-20 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

  5. 5

    Remove lamb, shred the meat off the bones, and return meat to the soup.

  6. 6

    Season to taste and serve hot with dark rye bread.

💡

Did You Know?

Kjötsúpa is often called the national dish of Iceland and every family has their own closely guarded recipe variation.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large heavy pot
  • ladle
  • cutting board

Garnishing

fresh parsley, cracked pepper

Accompaniments

rye bread, butter

The Story Behind Kjötsúpa

Kjötsúpa has sustained Icelandic families through harsh winters for centuries. The soup makes use of tougher lamb cuts that benefit from long simmering, and whatever root vegetables are available from cold storage. It represents the practical, waste-nothing philosophy of Icelandic cooking, where every part of the animal contributes to nourishment.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed sunday lunch, winter meals 📜 Origins: Medieval period

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