Julia'S Instant Potato Lefse

Prep: 20 min Serves: 20 Cuisine: American

Soft, tender potato lefse with creamy flavor, perfect for spreading with butter or jam. Great for holiday gatherings or as a comforting snack, appealing to all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 4 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cups instant potatoes
  • 2 scant tablespoons salt
  • 2 scant cups flour

Instructions

  1. Scald the milk, sour cream, and butter together.
  2. Pour the hot mixture over the instant potatoes and salt, then let it cool completely.
  3. Add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Divide the dough into portions and roll each into thin rounds.
  5. Cook on a hot griddle or skillet until lightly browned on both sides.
  6. Serve warm or cooled as desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the milk mixture is scalded well before adding it to the instant potatoes. If you're low on flour, you can substitute with a gluten-free blend, or use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Be cautious not to overmix the dough; it should be just combined to avoid tough lefse.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with butter and sugar, or fill them with your favorite spreads like jam or cream cheese. They also pair nicely with savory dishes, making a great side for soups or stews. For a delightful dessert, try them alongside Miss Mary'S Cabbage Casserole for a unique meal experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover lefse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds for a quick option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Julia'S Instant Potato Lefse contains roughly 411 calories, with 6g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (20% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 476mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

411 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.4g 13% DV
Total Fat 14.9g 19% DV
Carbs 62.9g 23% DV
Fiber 3.2g 11% DV
Sugar 16.7g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 476.1mg 21% DV
Potassium 941.2mg 20% DV
Cholesterol 5.4mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 72.1mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 17.9mg 20% DV
Vitamin D 0.6mcg 3% DV
Calcium 166.1mg 13% DV
Iron 3mg 17% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular potatoes instead of instant potatoes?

While instant potatoes are recommended for their convenience and texture, you can use mashed potatoes as a substitute. Just ensure they are not too wet. Adjust the flour slightly to maintain the right dough consistency.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To create a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt. Use a plant-based butter alternative to maintain the flavor and texture of the original recipe.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky, gradually incorporate more flour until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once; it’s better to add in small amounts. Dust your rolling surface with flour to prevent sticking while rolling.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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