While we can’t bring Nidaros Cathedral to the states, you can definitely bring Norway to your home, or your next picnic.
Norwegian food is hearty, rustic, and tends to involve a lot of local meats and fish, often smoked. Here’s how I’d put together an amazing Trondelag region picnic to experience both Trondheim and Røros in each bite.
Bring on the cured everything. From cured and smoked salmon to reindeer sausage, adding in hearty proteins is delicious. The closest we can get out here to reindeer is elk or caribou, but a flavorful cured sausage is always great for any picnic. Make sure to pair them with a hearty cheese and fruit.
If you’re on the East Coast or Canada, you can get your hands on cloudberries, or bakeapples, for an even more authentic Røros snack.
Pack a pilsner – or aquavit. For a summer picnic, the Norwegian drink of choice is a cold pilsner. Aquavit is the traditional Nordic spirit, but going out for a pilsner now, or utpils, is a huge summer past time.
Take your time. All of our dinners in Norway were long, slow occasions, and lunch was just as savored, though usually a little lighter. Give yourself 1-2 hours at a minimum, and enjoy the chance to hang out with friends.