Icelandic Fish Stew: 3 Cozy Dinners to Try

Icelandic fish stew is a bowl of comfort. It is hearty and nutritious and ideal for cool evenings. Here are three warming, cozy renditions of the dish. Every single one is full of protein, omega-3s, and flavor. Let’s get into how to prepare these stews at home.

Why Icelandic Fish Stew is So Special

Fish stew is not just food — it’s an experience. The creaminess of the broth, the tenderness of the potatoes, the flaky fish all of it just combines in a way that feels magical. 

These recipes, which serve 4 to 6 people, cost less than you’d expect. And, they’re packed with nutrition (hello, omega-3s and protein). Let’s get started.

Recipe #1: Classic Plokkfiskur (Icelandic Fish Stew)

What’s in It?

The OG Icelandic fish stew. Cod or haddock, potatoes, onion, butter, flour, milk, salt and pepper are the players here. A dash of curry powder also sneaks in now and then, for added warmth.

How Long Does It Take?

About 20–40 minutes. Quicker than many a soup or stew.

Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving has:

• Calories: 609–720
• Protein: 30–51g
• Carbs: 24–71g
• Fat: 22–26g
• Fiber: 3–7g
• Sodium: 349–850mg

Highlights

Traditionally served with rye bread. Some modern recipes add cheese for creaminess; purists do not.

Why I Love This Recipe

It’s simple but satisfying. The curry powder lends a little kick. (Dragging a piece of crusty bread through it is not a bad idea.)

Recipe #2: Creamy Icelandic Fish Stew

What’s in It?

This one’s all about the creaminess. Leeks, celery, onion, potatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, curry powder, tomato paste, olive oil and butter Cod, halibut or whitefish Time: about an hour.

How Long Does It Take?

35 minutes total. The fish needs only 25 minutes to cook.

Nutrition Highlights

Rich in protein, vitamin D and omega 3. As comforting as it is nutritious, this stew is.

Prep/Cook Time

35 minutes. Quick enough for a weeknight.

Why I Love This Recipe

It’s so decadent with that heavy cream. Garnish with chives for freshness. Great when you’re craving something decadent but also healthy.

Recipe #3: Vegetable-Forward Icelandic Fish Stew

What’s in It?

This stew is veggie-heavy. Ingredients like white fish (cod or haddock), potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, white wine, chicken or vegetable stock, tomato, heavy cream, and chives come together to form the perfect meal.

How Long Does It Take?

About 45 minutes. Worth the wait.

Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving (350g) has:

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg

Highlights

The douse of white wine makes it richer. This soup is for everyone who likes vegetables in their fish.

Why I Love This Recipe

It’s colorful and flavorful. The wine and tomatoes lend it a rich, complex flavor. Great when wanting to wow guests or treat oneself.

Comparison Table

Stew Version	Calories	Protein (g)	Carbs (g)	Fat (g)	Fiber (g)	Sodium (mg)	Key Ingredients	Prep/Cook Time
Classic Plokkfiskur	609–720	30–51	24–71	22–26	3–7	349–850	Cod/haddock, potatoes, milk	20–40 min
Creamy Icelandic Fish Stew	~400*	~30*	~24*	~22*	~3*	~850*	Cod/halibut, cream, leeks	35 min
Vegetable-Forward Fish Stew	400	30	24	22	3	850	Cod, potatoes, carrots, cream	45 min

*Estimated based on similar recipes.

Key Stats & Facts About Icelandic Fish Stew

Let’s talk numbers. And here’s what makes these stews special:

• Protein Power:30-51g of protein per serving in each stew. That’s filling and satisfying.
• Omega-3s: Full of heart- and brain-healthy omega-3 fats.
• Penny-Wise: Made with inexpensive white fish and simple pantry ingredients — potatoes and onions.
• Makes 4-6 family-size servings – Perfect for family meals.
• Variety: Substitute any firm white fish, or even add shrimp for variety.

Why Icelandic Fish Stew is Perfect for Families

It’s not easy to feed a family on a budget. But fish stew? It brings it home. It’s cheap, healthy, and filling. Plus, the leftovers reheat beautifully. I love that I can tailor it for picky eaters or close-up odds and ends in the fridge.

Tips to Save Even More Money

Here’s how to stretch your budget a bit more:

• Buy Frozen Fish: It’s cheaper than fresh and just as good for you.
• Lean on Pantry Staples: Potatoes, onions and carrots are extremely cheap and have been kept forever.
• Shop Sales: If fish and cream go on sale, stock up!
• Grow Your Own Herbs: Fresh herbs, such as chives, can be expensive. Growing your own saves money.

Final Thoughts

Fisherman’s Favorite Fish Stew is a comfort, healthful and filling meal in a bowl. Whichever of the classic, creamy or veggie-forward variations you choose, you’ll have a taste of the North Atlantic in your home. 

So break out a pot and start cooking. Plus, your taste buds — and your wallet — will thank you.