Matreiðsla
Matreiðsla is the Icelandic word for cooking or cuisine. It encompasses the preparation and presentation of food, reflecting the culinary traditions and ingredients of Iceland. Historically, Icelandic cooking was heavily influenced by the country's environment, with limited access to fresh produce and a reliance on preserved foods. Fish, lamb, and dairy products formed the backbone of the diet. Methods like smoking, salting, and drying were essential for preservation due to the harsh climate.
Over time, as Iceland's economy and access to global resources improved, matreiðsla has evolved. Modern Icelandic