FoodNorwegian heritage: Rømmegrøt and the taste of home

Norwegian heritage: Rømmegrøt and the taste of home

Sometimes it's served as a dessert or offered for breakfast, replacing porridge. The Norwegian delicacy rømmegrøt delights with its sweet and sour, slightly buttery taste. You probably haven't tried a dish quite like this yet.

Norwegian cream dessert
Norwegian cream dessert
Images source: © Adobe Stock

Rømmegrøt is a Norwegian treat that is thick, sweet, and always served warm. Its name comes from the Norwegian words "rømme", meaning sour cream, and "grøt", which means porridge. A dish described as "sour cream porridge" might not sound appealing, but it's a dessert worth trying.

A Norwegian childhood flavour

Rømmegrøt is a traditional Norwegian dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. For many Scandinavians, it's a delicacy associated with childhood. It was particularly popular in rural areas, and it's no wonder, as it is made from ingredients commonly produced on farms. It was often served during holidays and special occasions, and farmers enjoyed it after working in the fields.

The base is cream and butter.
The base is cream and butter.© Adobe Stock

The main ingredient in this dish is rømme, or rich, sour cream. In the UK, you could use sour cream or double cream. Combined with flour, milk, a touch of salt, and butter, it creates a smooth, creamy texture traditionally served with a generous portion of melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar.

A dessert of cream and butter

For many Norwegians, rømmegrøt brings back memories of childhood visits to grandparents or family celebrations. The simple recipe and its characteristic slightly sour cream aroma make it an exceptionally filling and comforting dish, perfect for times when you need to feel cosy and secure.

It's a delicious alternative to sweet porridge, custard, or panna cotta. Norwegian cuisine is more than just herrings and cardamom buns. This dessert will inspire you to explore it further.

Ingredients:

          
  • 475 ml thick, sour cream (or double cream),
  • 125 g all-purpose flour,
  • 240 ml milk,
  • a pinch of salt,
  • 50 g butter,
  • sugar and cinnamon for sprinkling.
  • Instructions:

            
    1. In a pot, melt the butter, add the flour, and cook briefly, stirring continuously.
    2. Add the sour cream and milk, along with the salt. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly until the porridge thickens.
    3. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the rømmegrøt is smooth and creamy.
    4. Serve warm, sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon, with a spoonful of melted butter on top.

    Your Norwegian dessert is ready to eat. Surprise your loved ones and take them on a tasty journey to Northern Europe. Enjoy!

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