If you’re curious about Icelandic hot dogs, then you’re in for a treat. These aren’t your average hot dogs. They stand out due to their main ingredient which is a sausage made from a mix of lamb with some pork, and beef, reflecting Iceland’s abundant sheep farming. This blend creates a distinct flavor which is quite uncommon outside Iceland.
At Bæjarins Beztu, a well-known local hot dog vendor, this specialty sausage is served in a bun dressed with ketchup, sweet mustard, remoulade, crispy fried onions, and raw onions. Many people prefer their Icelandic hot dogs “eina með öllu,” meaning “one with everything,” to get a taste of all available toppings.
You can easily find these hot dogs at many eateries throughout Iceland, where they are especially liked for their quick and tasty nature. Each one is served in a toasted bun, which perfectly complements the mix of crispy and raw onions, the ketchup, and the unique sweetness of pylsusinnep, Iceland’s brown mustard. For an extra touch, some vendors also offer remoulade, a creamy yellow Danish sauce that enhances the distinct flavors of this popular snack.
The Origins of Icelandic Hot Dogs
The saga of Icelandic hot dogs began in the mid-20th century when they quickly became a favorite for their affordability and simplicity. Using lamb was a logical step due to its local availability and it became a fast food that was uniquely Icelandic.
One of the most renowned hot dog stands in Iceland, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, has been a continuous presence since 1937 when the first stand was set up on Austurstræti street at the very center of the city by the grandfather of the current owner, Guðrún Kristmundsdóttir. In the 1960s, it moved two streets north to Tryggvagata, across from the Harpa Concert Hall, where the current flagship stand remains today.
In August 2004, the stand was visited by former United States president Bill Clinton while he was visiting Iceland for a UNICEF conference. This celebrity appearance led to a boost in popularity for the stand as it began appearing in tourism guidebooks on Iceland. Two years later, in August 2006, the British newspaper The Guardian selected Bæjarins Beztu as the best hot dog stand in Europe.
Today, Bæjarins Beztu is popular with both tourists and locals. There are three additional locations in the city, which together sell over one thousand hot dogs on a busy day.
Many people appreciate these hot dogs for their convenience. They’re easy to eat on the move, making them a go-to option for both locals and tourists looking for a quick, satisfying meal. Their continued popularity just shows that it continues to be a beloved quick meal option across Iceland.
Despite slight variations from vendor to vendor, the basic way of making an Icelandic hotdog has stayed pretty much the same. This dedication to Icelandic tradition means that you’ll get a genuine taste of Iceland no matter where you buy one.