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Traditional Icelandic Food #1 - The Classic Sheep Head Dish

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Just Icelandic
Just Icelandic
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Recipe Information

Recipe Available
Video-Specific Recipe

Svið

Cultural Context

Svið is a traditional Icelandic dish that dates back to the Viking Age, showcasing resourcefulness in using every part of the animal. It is often served during Þorrablót, a midwinter festival celebrating Icelandic heritage. This dish reflects the harsh conditions of Iceland’s past, where nothing went to waste. Today, Svið is a beloved delicacy, enjoyed by locals and adventurous visitors alike, often accompanied by traditional sides like potatoes and sour cream.

IcelandicISmain
180 min
hard
4 servings
Servings4
1 sheep's head
8 cups water
2 tablespoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon thyme
2 bay leaves
1 onion, quartered
4 carrots, chopped

Quantities are estimated based on standard recipes for your convenience. The actual ingredients used in this video are accurate.

sheep's head

💰Cheaper: pork head

Pork head is more readily available and less expensive than sheep's head.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt maintains creaminess while reducing calories.

1

Singe off any hair from the sheep's head and clean it thoroughly.

2

Place the sheep's head in a large pot and cover it with water.

3

Add salt, black pepper, thyme, bay leaves, onion, and carrots to the pot.

4

Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

5

Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.

6

Remove the head from the pot and let it cool slightly before handling.

7

Once cool, carefully remove the meat from the head and set aside.

Cooking Techniques

boilingroasting

Equipment Needed

large potstrainercutting boardknife

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Allergens

dairy

Also Known As

Singed Sheep's Head

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