Sodd is a traditional Norwegian meat soup, often enjoyed during special occasions and festive gatherings. This hearty soup features tender pieces of lamb or beef, root vegetables, and delicate meatballs in a flavorful broth. It’s a comforting dish that showcases the simplicity and richness of Norwegian cuisine. Here’s a traditional recipe to help you make Norwegian Sodd at home.
Ingredients:
- For the Soup:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small rutabaga, peeled and diced
- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) beef or vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Meatballs:
- 300 g (10 oz) ground lamb or beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, bread crumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut. Set aside.
- Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
- In a large pot, bring the beef or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the bite-sized pieces of lamb or beef and bay leaves. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Add the sliced carrot, diced potatoes, diced rutabaga, and sliced leek to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Carefully drop the prepared meatballs into the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves.
- Ladle the hot sodd into bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of meat, vegetables, and meatballs.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the sodd hot, accompanied by crusty bread or flatbrød (Norwegian flatbread).
Tips for Perfect Sodd:
- Tender Meat: Use cuts of meat that are tender and suitable for simmering, such as lamb shoulder or beef chuck.
- Uniform Sizes: Cut the vegetables and meat into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Flavorful Broth: Use a high-quality broth to enhance the flavor of the soup. Homemade broth works best.
Cultural Significance:
Sodd is a cherished dish in Norway, often served during celebrations such as weddings, baptisms, and holidays. Its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients make it a favorite among Norwegians, symbolizing warmth and togetherness. Sharing a bowl of sodd is a way to connect with Norwegian heritage and enjoy the simple pleasures of traditional home-cooked food.
Making Norwegian Sodd at home is a delightful way to experience the heart and soul of Norwegian cuisine. This meat soup, with its tender meat, flavorful broth, and wholesome vegetables, is sure to become a beloved dish in your household. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this traditional recipe will bring a taste of Norway to your kitchen.