Pylsa
Lamb, beef, and pork hot dog served with raw and fried onions, remoulade, and Icelandic mustard in a steamed bun; Iceland's unofficial national dish.
Pylsa (or “pylsur,” plural) is Iceland’s national hot dog, beloved for its unique blend of lamb, pork, and beef—giving it a slightly gamey, rich flavor unlike any other. The most famous version is the “eina með öllu” (one with everything), which includes crispy fried onions, raw onions, sweet brown mustard (pylsusinnep), ketchup, and remoulade, all tucked into a warm, slightly steamed bun. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a Reykjavik stand operating since 1937, is the epicenter of pylsa culture and has served everyone from locals to Bill Clinton. The inclusion of lamb reflects Iceland’s agricultural history and love of sheep farming. More than just street food, pylsa is part of the national identity—a must-eat for anyone visiting the island.
Authentic Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Icelandic hot dogs (Lamb, pork, and beef blend (SS or Reykjavik brand))
- 4 Hot dog buns (Slightly steamed)
- as needed Icelandic sweet mustard (Pylsusinnep or sweet brown mustard)
- as needed Ketchup
- ¼ cup Remoulade (Danish-style pickle sauce)
- 1 large White onion (Half for raw, half for frying)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil (For frying onions)
Instructions
- Boil or grill Icelandic hot dogs until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Dice half the onion finely for raw topping.
- Slice remaining onion and fry in oil until golden and crispy.
- Steam buns lightly to warm and soften.
- Place hot dog in steamed bun.
- Apply 'eina með öllu' (one with everything): Add sweet Icelandic mustard.
- Add ketchup in stripe pattern.
- Top with generous spoonful of remoulade.
- Add raw diced onions.
- Finish with crispy fried onions on top.
- Serve immediately. This is Iceland's beloved national dish - authentic Reykjavik style!
Related Styles (kinda)
4 similar styles
Red or brown sausage served in a split-bun with remoulade, ketchup, mustard, raw and fried onions, and pickled cucumber slices.
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Hot dog topped with sweet teriyaki sauce, creamy Japanese Kewpie mayo, and shredded nori, often with onions; a Vancouver/Japanese fusion.
Skinless deep-fried sausage (chicken, pork, beef) cut lengthwise, doused in mayonnaise, (curry) ketchup, and minced raw onion; a ubiquitous Dutch snack.