Rømme is a Norwegian word meaning sour cream; grøt translates as 'porridge'. Traditionally, rømmegrøt is a delicacy prepared for special occasions, including holidays. It is considered to be a traditional Norwegian dish. Recipes differ depending on the region of the country.[2]
Rømmegrøt is thick and sweet and is generally drizzled in butter and sprinkled with sugar and ground cinnamon. Traditionally, it is eaten with cured meat.
In popular media, the children's book What's in theRømmegrøt? was written in 2020 by Norwegian-American author Carol Hagen. The storyline is based on a grandmother making the dish with her granddaughter, and includes a recipe.
In Westby, Wisconsin, a city that celebrates its Norwegian heritage, there is an annual rømmegrøt eating contest.[3]