What do Norwegian people eat for Christmas?

In Norway, the Christmas season begins in late November, and families begin preparing for the big holiday. One of the most important traditions is baking seven different types of cookies. These cookies come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors, but some of the most popular include pepperkaker (gingerbread), sandkaker (shortbread), and kransekake (a ring of almond cookies).

As Christmas Eve approaches, the main course is traditionally lutefisk, which is dried fish that has been lye-soaked and then served with boiled potatoes, soft sweet goat's cheese and bacon. Other popular Christmas dishes include pinnekjøtt (lamb or mutton ribs steamed on wooden sticks) and ribbe (pork ribs). These main dishes are often accompanied by a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, meatballs, and lefse (a type of flatbread).

For dessert, many Norwegian families enjoy the traditional riskrem (rice porridge with a caramel sauce) served either cold or hot. In the cold version, the pudding is placed outside until the sauce freezes. The porridge is then covered in whipped cream and sprinkled with cinnamon.

It's also common to have a selection of chocolates, candies, and nuts available throughout the Christmas season. Norwegians also enjoy drinking a traditional hot drink called gløgg. Gløgg is a type of mulled wine made with red wine, spices, and raisins. The mulled wine is heated and typically served with almonds and raisins.

These are some of the most common foods eaten in Norway during the Christmas season, but there are many other traditional dishes and treats that Norwegians enjoy.