Pinnekjøtt is a traditional Norwegian dish that is typically served during the Christmas season. It is made with salted and dried lamb ribs that are then steamed and served with boiled potatoes and rutabaga mash. Pinnekjøtt is a flavorful and hearty dish that has been enjoyed in Norway for centuries, and it continues to be a beloved holiday staple to this day.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of salted and dried lamb ribs (pinnekjøtt)
- 3-4 pounds of potatoes
- 1 pound of rutabaga
- Butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Soak the lamb ribs
Place the lamb ribs in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 6-8 hours. This will help to remove some of the salt from the meat.
Step 2: Steam the lamb ribs
Once the lamb ribs have soaked, rinse them well and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the ribs on a bed of birch sticks or wooden skewers in a steamer basket or a large pot with a steamer insert. Add enough water to the pot so that it just touches the bottom of the steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and steam the lamb ribs for 1-2 hours, until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Step 3: Boil the potatoes
While the lamb ribs are steaming, peel and quarter the potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Prepare the rutabaga mash
Peel and chop the rutabaga into small pieces. Place them in a pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the rutabaga for 20-25 minutes, until it is tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the water from the pot, then mash the rutabaga with a fork or a potato masher. Add a tablespoon or two of butter and mix well.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once the lamb ribs, potatoes, and rutabaga mash are ready, arrange them on a platter or individual plates and serve. Add a dollop of butter on top of the potatoes and rutabaga mash for extra flavor. Enjoy!
Tips:
- If you do not have access to birch sticks or wooden skewers, you can also use a steamer insert with holes in it to steam the lamb ribs.
- Pinnekjøtt is traditionally served with a type of sour cream called rømme, but you can also use regular sour cream or crème fraîche.
- For a more festive presentation, you can decorate the platter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
the meal by serving it with a glass of aquavit or a cold beer. This will help to cut through the richness of the lamb and enhance the flavors of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of meat instead of lamb ribs?
Pinnekjøtt is traditionally made with lamb ribs, but you can also use other types of meat like beef or pork if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish may be different with a different type of meat.
What can I serve with pinnekjøtt besides potatoes and rutabaga mash?
Pinnekjøtt is typically served with boiled potatoes and rutabaga mash, but you can also serve it with other traditional Norwegian side dishes like kålrabistappe (mashed turnips) or surkål (sauerkraut).
Can I make pinnekjøtt ahead of time?
Yes, you can soak the lamb ribs ahead of time and steam them the day of serving. The boiled potatoes and rutabaga mash can also be made a day ahead and reheated in the oven or on the stovetop.
Is pinnekjøtt a healthy dish?
Pinnekjøtt is a high-protein and nutrient-rich dish, but it is also high in sodium due to the salted and dried lamb ribs. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion:
Pinnekjøtt is a delicious and traditional Norwegian dish that is perfect for the holiday season. It requires some preparation and patience, but the result is a flavorful and hearty meal that will satisfy your taste buds. Serve it with boiled potatoes, rutabaga mash, and a glass of aquavit or cold beer for a festive and memorable dining experience. Enjoy!
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