Exploring the Flavours of Norway: Norwegian Waffles with Gjetost Cheese
This past summer, my family and I ventured beyond our usual sun-soaked Mediterranean cruise and set sail along Norway's captivating coast. Our voyage brought us to the charming village of Skudeneshavn, a short drive away from the pot of Haugesund.
As we strolled through the picturesque streets adorned with traditional white Norwegian houses, a sudden downpour threatened to dampen our spirits. But just when we were contemplating the best way to seek shelter from the rain, our ears perked up at the mention of one word – waffles.
Intrigued, we followed the advice of fellow tourists, winding our way around a seemingly ordinary house and into a tiny backyard. Through that modest backyard and an unassuming open door, we found ourselves in an exquisitely decorated room with only two tables, one of which was occupied by locals.
Squeezing into the remaining table, we discovered a simple (verbal) menu offering just two items: waffles and coffee. Little did we know that these waffles would leave an indelible mark on our taste buds.
The Norwegian host in this very quaint back room crafted the finest waffles we'd ever encountered. Heart-shaped and astonishingly light, they boasted a perfectly balanced flavour and texture distinct from the denser Belgian waffles. Accompanied by homemade jam, this culinary experience was pure perfection.
Determined to replicate our newfound waffle paradise at home, we armed ourselves with a heart-shaped waffle maker and an online Norwegian waffle recipe. However, achieving perfection proved elusive, taking weeks of experimentation and countless tastings.
Below, you'll find the recipe we now use to make waffles every Sunday. While it may not perfectly match those from Skudeneshavn, it comes close.
When attempting these waffles at home, remember that a very hot waffle iron and precise batter quantities are essential. Pour too much, and it oozes out; pour too little, and your waffles will be flat and uneven. Patience is key in perfecting your technique.
For an authentic Norwegian experience, pair these delectable waffles with Gjetost cheese, also known as brown cheese (brunost, in Norwegian). Renowned for its unique colour and sweet, toffee-like flavour, it's a sublime accompaniment to warm, homemade waffles.
Happy savouring!
The Cheese Lady x
RECIPE
Ingredients
3 eggs
25 g caster sugar
350 g plain flour
2 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
100 ml kefir, buttermilk or natural yoghurt
100 ml water
200 ml milk
150 g melted butter
(Optional: For sweeter waffles double the sugar, add 0.25 tsp cardamon, 2 tsp vanilla, 1-2 drops of lemon juice)
Method
Whisk egg and sugar until light airy
Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl.
Combine milk, water and kefir in a bowl.
Combine the dry ingredients with the milk mixture and egg mixture bit by bit until you have a smooth batter (don’t overmix). Add the melted butter and combine.
Notes
If think that the batter is too thick, add a little more water to thin it out. Try one waffle and see how it bakes.
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