Fårikål

Fårikål – hearty Norwegian lamb and cabbage stew
Norway
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Fårikål is Norway's national dish, celebrated for its simplicity and rich flavors. This hearty stew, made primarily of lamb and cabbage, is a staple during the autumn months, especially during the first Sunday of October when Norwegians gather to enjoy this comforting meal. Its cultural significance lies in its representation of Norwegian culinary traditions and communal gatherings.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 5 kg (3.3 lbs) lamb shoulder or stew meat, cut into chunks
  • 1 large cabbage, cut into wedges
  • 4-6 whole black peppercorns
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2-3 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Season the lamb chunks with salt and black pepper.

Layer the Ingredients

In a large pot or Dutch oven, place a layer of lamb chunks at the bottom.

Add a layer of cabbage wedges on top of the lamb.

Sprinkle some black peppercorns over the cabbage.

Repeat the layers until all the lamb and cabbage are used, finishing with a layer of cabbage on top.

Add Water

Pour water into the pot until it almost covers the ingredients. You can use more or less depending on the size of your pot, but you want enough liquid to cook the meat and cabbage thoroughly.

Cook the Stew

Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Let it simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the cabbage is soft.

Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the stew about 30 minutes before it’s done cooking.

Serve

Serve the Fårikål hot, directly from the pot. It’s often enjoyed with boiled potatoes or bread.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fårikål?

Fårikål is a traditional Norwegian stew made from lamb and cabbage. It is known for its simple ingredients and robust flavors, simmered together for hours.

Where does Fårikål come from?

Fårikål originates from Norway and is often considered the country's national dish, reflecting its agricultural heritage.

What are the main ingredients in Fårikål?

The key ingredients in Fårikål include lamb shoulder or stew meat, cabbage, black peppercorns, salt, and water.

How long does Fårikål take to make?

Fårikål takes approximately 135-200 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Fårikål?

Fårikål is typically served with boiled potatoes and flatbread, making for a complete and satisfying meal.