National Dish Iceland: Þykk Súpa (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Þykk súpa, the thick, warming soup that sits at the heart of Icelandic home cooking. Built from honest ingredients — meat or fish, root vegetables and a good stock — it is the kind of bowl that makes sense the moment the wind picks up outside. Simple to make and endlessly forgiving, it carries the quiet, unfussy flavours of the North Atlantic straight into your own kitchen.
About Þykk Súpa
Þykk súpa is a hearty thick soup that is loved far beyond Iceland itself, having won over food lovers around the world. The dish brings together fresh, local ingredients to create a genuinely satisfying eating experience. It is perfect for cold days and fills the kitchen with a comforting warmth and cosiness. Let the range of flavours inspire you and rediscover the honest, ingredient-led cooking of Iceland, the same spirit you find in a bowl of Kjoetsupa.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g meat or fish (for example lamb or cod)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 litre vegetable or meat stock
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh herbs (parsley, for example), to garnish
Shopping for the ingredients
For the best results, look for fresh, seasonal and local produce when shopping for the ingredients. This not only improves the flavour, it is also the kinder choice for the environment. Visit your local market or a good greengrocer to find quality produce. Fresh vegetables and well-sourced meat or fish are the key to a successful Þykk súpa, just as they are for a classic Fiskisupa.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking your Þykk súpa, get all the ingredients ready. That means washing, peeling and cutting the vegetables, and trimming the meat or fish. Good preparation makes the cooking itself far easier and helps the flavours come through properly as the soup simmers. Take your time getting everything in order — the results will repay the effort.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a large pot with a little oil and fry the onions until translucent.
- Add the diced meat or fish and sear briefly.
- Stir in the carrots and potatoes and mix everything well.
- Pour in the stock and bring the pot to the boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for around 20–30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with paprika, salt and fresh herbs just before serving.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Þykk súpa is easily made gluten-free and lactose-free. Simply use a gluten-free stock and swap any lactose-containing ingredients for plant-based alternatives. Most Icelandic recipes are built on fresh, natural ingredients, which makes adapting them for particular dietary needs straightforward. That way anyone with an allergy or a special diet can still enjoy this delicious soup.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
There is a lovely version of Þykk súpa for vegans and vegetarians too. Replace the meat or fish with protein-rich plant alternatives such as tofu, chickpeas or lentils. Use vegetable stock as the base and add extra vegetables to build up the flavour. Prepared this way, non-meat eaters can enjoy this traditional speciality just as much as anyone else.
More tips and tricks
To deepen the flavour, try adding different spices and herbs. Experiment with thyme, bay leaves or even a hint of chilli for a little warmth. A handful of roasted garlic brings a particularly special note to the pot. Adapting the recipe to your own preferences makes cooking more creative and keeps the dish interesting from one batch to the next.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of Þykk súpa lies in its versatility. You can adjust the recipe entirely to your own liking, whether through the vegetables you use or the choice of meat and fish. If you are not keen on the flavour of lamb, beef or chicken breast work perfectly well instead. Give your creativity free rein and build your own version of this flavourful soup.
Ingredient substitutions
If some ingredients do not appeal or are hard to find, there are plenty of alternatives. Instead of ordinary potatoes, try sweet potatoes for a gentler sweetness. The vegetables can also be varied by season and availability, so you always have fresh, tasty options to hand. This flexibility makes Þykk súpa a perfect dish for any occasion.
Drink pairing ideas
A number of drinks go beautifully with a good Þykk súpa and bring out its flavours. A light, fruity wheat beer or a classic Icelandic cider harmonises very nicely with the soup. If you prefer something plainer, a cool glass of water is an excellent choice too. Drink whatever you enjoy most and whatever complements the particular flavour of your soup.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can raise the whole Þykk súpa experience. Serve the soup in attractive deep bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. Characterful spoons or a wooden board underneath also add to the pleasure of the meal. A few slices of Rugbraud alongside complete the table — remember that we eat with our eyes first.
A bit of history
Þykk súpa has its origins in Icelandic cuisine and is a traditional dish cooked in homes across the country. The soup has developed over centuries and reflects the culture and eating habits of Icelanders. Originally conceived as a nourishing meal, it was often conjured up from whatever nature happened to provide. Today Þykk súpa stands as a symbol of the rustic, warm-hearted hospitality typical of Icelandic cooking.
More recipe ideas
- Kjoetsupa Med Graenmeti
- Fiskisupa Med Rjoma
- Langoustine Soup
- Ljomandi Supa
- Kartoeflustappa Med Brunni Sosu
Summary: Þykk Súpa
In short, Þykk súpa is an unforgettable dish defined by its warming flavours and its use of fresh ingredients. Whether you make it in the traditional way or in a more modern variation, this soup suits any occasion and brings a piece of Icelandic culture into your home. Let its many possibilities and adaptations inspire you, and enjoy this delicious dish for yourself.
