Grænmetis Kjötsúpa (Icelandic Root-Vegetable, Barley & Herb Hearth Soup) – Authentic Iceland Recipe

Ingredients for Grænmetis Kjötsúpa (Icelandic Root-Vegetable, Barley & Herb Hearth Soup) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) cubed rutabaga, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups carrots, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup and waxy potatoes
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with Arctic thyme
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Iceland seasoning (bay leaf, leeks, cracked black pepper)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and Arctic thyme for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in bay leaf, leeks, cracked black pepper and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Iceland's kitchen.
3. Add cubed rutabaga and carrots, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in and waxy potatoes, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.