Exploring Icelandic Recipes: Icelandic Cocoa Soup

‘Cocoa soup and Iceland? Whaaat?!’ I hear you cry! Well let me explain… I’ve had a bit of a fascination with Iceland (the country, not my fave frozen food chain), and Icelandic recipes, ever since I was three and my parents ditched me and my brothers to spend a week visiting Icelandic friends they had over there and travelling around Iceland in a 4×4. I don’t remember being left for a week with my grandparents, but I do remember the stories my Mum used to tell about the lack of trees and dogs (although this may well have changed since the 80s), and how incredible the geysers and the landscape was.

Ever since then I have always hungrily read everything I can about this beautiful country, and my interest was re-ignited once more last Thursday when I met up with an old uni friend over drinks, who had just come back to the UK after working in a care home there for 5 months (very random, I know!). It’s a place that I’m desperate to go with Adam and the children (apparently it’s not actually as cold as you might think, due it’s location at the end of a warm-ish North Atlantic gulf stream), and I’m hoping that within the next year or two we might be able to do just that. I want to swim in the hot springs, visit the ice caves, and if it were to be a winter visit, see the Northern Lights. 

So when Expedia challenged me to re-create an Icelandic recipe from my favourite country, I immediately volunteered for the challenge of Iceland. Now, Iceland isn’t best known for it’s cuisine, but actually these days the urban myth of Icelandic people eating purely putrefied shark and boiled sheep’s head is just that, a myth. 

Great Icelandic recipes include delicious baked cod, tender lamb stews (Icelandic lamb is THE best apparently, with sheep grazing on unspoiled land and gorging on seaweed), Reindeer steaks and Skyr ( a type of yummy soft cheese) are often on the menu when it comes to Icelandic recipes, but I decided to re-create an Icelandic Christmas desserts classic: Icelandic Cocoa Soup. 

Cocoa Soup? Well, yes actually! A big hit with young and old alike, and a great option when it comes to Icelandic Christmas desserts, this surprisingly low-fat yet filling soup is enjoyed all year round in Iceland, but I thought it might be especially apt given the festive time of year. Served in either a mug or a bowl, and sometimes with oaty rusks on the side, this cocoa soup recipe is one to try if you’re planning on booking your Icelandic break any time soon! Looking for other hearty soups? Try this bean and potato soup recipe from RecipeLibrary.net

Ingredients

3 tablespoons Iceland cocoa powder (although your own country’s will also do!)
3 tablespoons sugar
1⁄2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 cups water
3 cups milk
1 tablespoon potato starch or 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt to taste

Method

1. Mix the Iceland cocoa powder, sugar and cinnamon in a saucepan.
2. Add the water gradually and stir until smooth.
3. Bring to boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the milk, reheat to boiling point and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Mix the potato starch or cornstarch with a little cold water, stir into soup and remove from heat.
6. Salt to taste and serve.

This was so easy to make, and I personally find it’s best cooked so it’s on the thicker-side.  

Absolutely delicious on a chilly day, Icelandic Cocoa Soup is a great Icelandic Christmas desserts alternative to the usual Christmas pudding this Christmas!

FAQs Section:

Q1: What are some traditional Icelandic Christmas desserts?
A1: Icelandic Christmas desserts are a true reflection of the country’s rich culinary heritage. Popular choices include jólakaka (Icelandic Christmas cake), laufabrauð (leaf bread), and rice porridge. These desserts are often enjoyed during the festive season, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Q2: Can I make Icelandic Cocoa Soup at home?
A2: Yes! Icelandic Cocoa Soup, known locally as kókós súpa, is a simple yet delicious dish that can be recreated with a few key ingredients such as cocoa powder, milk, and sugar. It’s often served with a side of traditional Icelandic bread for a comforting experience.

Q3: Are Icelandic recipes easy to follow?
A3: Many Icelandic recipes, including those for Icelandic Christmas desserts, are relatively simple and require only a few ingredients. They focus on using local and seasonal ingredients, making them a great choice for anyone interested in exploring Nordic cuisine.

Q4: What are some other Icelandic recipes I should try?
A4: Aside from Cocoa Soup and Christmas desserts, Icelandic cuisine offers a variety of dishes like hákarl (fermented shark), plokkfiskur (fish stew), and skyr (Icelandic yogurt). Each dish provides a unique taste of Icelandic culture and history.

Q5: Where can I find Icelandic ingredients in the UK?
A5: Icelandic ingredients may be available in specialty stores or online retailers that focus on Nordic foods. Look for items like skyr, rye bread, and unique Icelandic spices to bring the flavors of Iceland into your kitchen.

See more of my desserts here, and seasonal posts here!

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.