doebadie
Culinary Explorer
I recently made Icelandic Plokkfiskur, and it was an absolute comfort food masterpiece! This traditional Icelandic fish stew is incredibly simple but packed with rich flavors. It’s perfect for cozy evenings, and the combination of tender fish, creamy sauce, and hearty potatoes makes it a truly satisfying dish. Here’s how you can make your own Plokkfiskur at home:
Ingredients:
- For the Stew:
- 1 lb (450g) white fish (cod or haddock works best), boneless and skinless
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk (or a mix of milk and cream for a richer version)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional for Serving:
- Rye bread (for an authentic Icelandic touch)
- Pickled vegetables (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fish:
- Start by boiling the potatoes. Place them in a pot of salted water and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the potatoes are cooking, gently boil the fish. In a separate pot, bring water to a simmer and add the fish fillets. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the fish is flaky and cooked through. Drain the fish, then break it into chunks.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for another minute to form a roux (this helps thicken the sauce).
- Gradually add the milk (or milk-cream mixture), stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the Fish and Potatoes:
- Add the cooked fish and potatoes to the sauce, gently stirring to combine. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve:
- Serve your Plokkfiskur hot, garnished with fresh parsley. You can enjoy it with a slice of traditional Icelandic rye bread or some pickled vegetables on the side if you like.
Conclusion
Icelandic Plokkfiskur is a true comfort food—warm, creamy, and full of rustic flavor. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, and its simple ingredients come together to create something incredibly satisfying. Whether you're making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
