Gjaldskár

Gjaldskár is a term used in Icelandic to describe a type of traditional Icelandic dish, typically prepared for the Christmas Eve meal. The term translates to "money bag" in English, reflecting the dish's shape and the fact that it is often filled with various ingredients that resemble coins. Gjaldskár is a layered dish, consisting of a base of mashed potatoes, topped with a layer of minced meat, and then a layer of mashed potatoes again, topped with a final layer of minced meat. The dish is often garnished with a sprinkling of breadcrumbs and a drizzle of melted butter. It is typically served with a side of pickled herring and a glass of hot spiced wine. Gjaldskár is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season. The dish's origins can be traced back to the 19th century, when Icelandic immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them to the New World. Today, gjaldskár remains a beloved and iconic part of Icelandic Christmas Eve cuisine.