Norway and its legendary cheeses: from Brunost to Jarlsberg
Norway is a country where cheese plays an important role in everyday life. Norwegian cheeses are known for their unique flavours, textures and production methods, which are rooted in centuries-old cheese-making traditions. From the famous Brunost, a sweet brown cheese, to the hard and aromatic Jarlsberg, each variety has its own history and place in Norwegian culture. In this article, we will tell you about Norway's most famous cheeses, their characteristics and where you can try them.
What is Brunost and why is it so popular in Norway?
Brunost (or brown cheese) is one of the most unique types of cheese produced in Norway. Its characteristic brown colour and sweet taste give it a distinctive flavour that sets it apart from other cheeses around the world. Brunost is made from whey and has a consistency similar to soft butter. This cheese is often eaten for breakfast, spread on bread or waffles, and served with berries or honey.
Brunost became popular in Norway back in the 19th century and is now an important part of the country's culinary traditions. For Norwegians, it is not just food — it is part of their national identity.
How is Jarlsberg made and why is it called "Swiss" cheese?
Jarlsberg is a hard cheese with a soft texture and characteristic holes, similar to Swiss Emmental. The cheese is made from cow's milk and has a mild, slightly nutty flavour. It is often used as an ingredient in various dishes, from sandwiches to pasta. It is one of Norway's most famous export products, and its popularity is not limited to Northern Europe.
Jarlsberg cheese has excellent melting properties, so it is often used in casseroles and fondues, as well as an appetiser with wine and beer.
Brunost Toast Recipe (2 servings)
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of toast bread
- 100 g Brunost
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Preparation:
- Toast the bread in a toaster or in a frying pan with oil until golden brown.
- Cut the Brunost into thin slices.
- Place the cheese on the hot toast and heat in a frying pan until the cheese melts.
- Add a little honey for sweetness, if desired. Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
What other cheeses are worth trying in Norway?
Norway is famous not only for Brunost and Jarlsberg, but also for a number of other cheeses that are worth trying:
- Kraftkar — a soft blue cheese that was named the best cheese in the world in 2016.
- Trollkrem — a cheese with a sharp taste, often served with meat dishes.
- Pultost — a traditional Norwegian cheese known for its sharp taste and paste-like consistency. It is served with potatoes and bread.
- Gamle Ole — a cheese aged for several years, with an intense flavour and firm texture.
Where can you try the best cheeses in Norway?
| By | Etablissement | Spesialitet | Pris (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oslo | Ostehuset | Stort utvalg av lokale og internasjonale oster | 100–150 NOK/porsjon |
| Bergen | Ostegården | Rett fra ysteriet, ostesmaking | 120 NOK/porsjon |
| Trondheim | Trondheim Ostebutikk | Spesialoster fra ulike regioner i Norge | 90–120 NOK/porsjon |
| Stavanger | Stavanger Søstove | Lokale oster med sjømat | 130 NOK/porsjon |
How to serve Brunost and Jarlsberg?
- Brunost is traditionally served with rye bread, waffles or lefse flatbread, and is also often used as a filling for sweet pies or cakes.
- Jarlsberg is often sliced thinly and served with green vegetables and nuts, as well as red wine or beer.
Norwegian cheeses offer a whole world of flavours, textures and traditions that are well worth exploring for anyone interested in local cuisine. Brunost and Jarlsberg are two of the most famous cheeses, with a long history and widespread popularity in Norway and beyond. They are used in a variety of recipes, from traditional breakfasts to gourmet dishes. Be sure to try these cheeses when travelling in Norway to truly experience the uniqueness and flavour of the northern culinary tradition.
