In the charming villages and cozy homes of Norway, a heartwarming and traditional soup called Sodd has been delighting locals for generations. This beloved dish, with its roots dating back to the 19th century, holds a special place in Norwegian culinary heritage. Sodd is more than just a soup; it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the simple pleasures of comfort food. Join us as we uncover the secrets of this soul-soothing delight and learn how to make this cherished Norwegian soup in your own kitchen.

A Brief History of Sodd:

Sodd’s history can be traced to the rural regions of Norway, where it was originally a dish served at weddings and other special gatherings. Over time, it became a cherished meal prepared by families during holidays and gatherings, symbolizing the warmth of hospitality and a sense of togetherness. Today, Sodd continues to hold a significant place in Norwegian culture, cherished for its simplicity and the memories it evokes.

The Ingredients:

The essence of Sodd lies in its simplicity. Traditionally, Sodd is made with a combination of simple ingredients easily found in Norwegian kitchens:

  • Meat: Lamb, beef, or a combination of both are commonly used, often leftover from a previous meal. The meat is typically cut into small pieces.
  • Vegetables: Carrots, leeks, onions, and potatoes provide hearty flavors and textures.
  • Broth: Sodd is traditionally made with a clear meat broth, subtly seasoned with salt and pepper.
  • Dumplings: Sodd is often served with small dumplings made from a mixture of flour, milk, and eggs, adding a delightful dimension to the soup.

The Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 500g lamb or beef, cut into small pieces
  • 2 leeks, sliced
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

For the Dumplings:

  • 200g all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 150ml milk
  • Salt, a pinch

Instructions:

  1. Preparing the Soup Base:
    • In a large pot, add the chopped meat, sliced leeks, carrots, and chopped onion.
    • Cover the ingredients with water and bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the soup base for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors are well infused.
  2. Making the Dumplings:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt.
    • Beat the eggs and milk together in a separate bowl.
    • Gradually add the egg and milk mixture to the flour, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
  3. Cooking the Dumplings:
    • Bring a separate pot of salted water to a gentle simmer.
    • Using two teaspoons, carefully drop small spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering water. Cook the dumplings for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
    • Remove the cooked dumplings with a slotted spoon and set them aside.
  4. Assembling the Sodd:
    • Once the meat and vegetables in the soup base are tender, season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Add the diced potatoes to the pot and continue simmering until the potatoes are cooked through.
  5. Serving the Sodd:
    • To serve, ladle the Sodd into individual bowls, making sure to include a generous amount of meat, vegetables, and potatoes in each serving.
    • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
    • Accompany the Sodd with a side of warm dumplings, allowing diners to add them to their soup as desired.

Sodd, the heartwarming Norwegian traditional soup, captures the essence of community, tradition, and comfort in every bowl. This cherished dish brings families and friends together, evoking cherished memories of special gatherings and celebrations. By following this simple recipe, you can recreate the soul-soothing delight of Sodd in your own kitchen, experiencing the true taste of Norway’s culinary heritage. So, gather your loved ones, serve up a steaming bowl of Sodd, and savor the flavors of tradition and togetherness that this delightful Norwegian soup brings to your table.