opskriften

Opskriften is the Danish term for a written set of instructions used to prepare a dish, commonly translated as "the recipe." The noun derives from a root meaning to write up or compile. In Danish and Norwegian, an opskrift typically specifies the ingredients, their quantities, and the method required to produce a dish, and appears in home cookbooks, culinary magazines, and online resources.

A typical opskrift includes a list of ingredients with exact amounts, followed by step-by-step directions, including preparation and cooking times, temperatures, and equipment. It may indicate the yield or servings, as well as tips, substitutions, and variations to accommodate dietary needs or regional tastes.

Historically, recipes were passed through handwritten household collections and later printed cookbooks. They function as practical guides and cultural records, preserving techniques and flavors across generations. Over time, recipe formats became more standardized, with clearer measurements and structured steps to facilitate replication.

Today, opskrifter are widely shared online, often with photos, ratings, and user-submitted variations. Digital platforms commonly use metadata and schema to categorize recipes by ingredients, cuisine, dietary restrictions, and nutrition. The concept remains central to culinary culture, balancing tradition with innovation in contemporary cooking.