Lefsa
Lefsa is a traditional Norwegian flatbread made from a simple mixture of potatoes, flour, and butter. With a tender, slightly sweet flavor, it's perfect for serving with butter and sugar or as a wrap for savory fillings. This versatile dish is great for gatherings and can be enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil water and margarine.
- Add instant potatoes, sugar, powdered milk, and salt to the mixture.
- Spread the mixture in a cake pan and cool.
- Take 1/3 of the mixture and mix it with 1 1/4 cups of flour.
- Form the mixture into a log.
- Cut the log into 16 pieces and roll each piece out thin.
- Cook on a hot griddle until lightly brown on both sides.
- Store in a damp towel.
- Refrigerate or freeze as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the margarine is fully melted before adding to the water. Instant potato flakes can be substituted with fresh mashed potatoes, but the texture may vary. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar. Adjust the flour amount according to the moisture of the mixture for optimal rollability.
Serving Suggestions
Lefsa is traditionally served with butter and sugar, but it also pairs beautifully with savory options like Swedish Meatballs or Asparagus Roll-Ups for a delicious meal. For a sweet treat, try spreading jam or cream cheese on top. These versatile flatbreads can be enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.
Storage & Reheating
Lefsa can be stored in an airtight container wrapped in a damp towel to prevent drying out. If you plan to keep them for longer, refrigerate or freeze them, separating each piece with parchment paper to avoid sticking. To reheat, simply warm them on a griddle for a few minutes on each side until they are soft and pliable.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lefsa contains roughly 1054 calories, with 12g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 754mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, you can use fresh mashed potatoes, but remember to adjust the liquid accordingly to achieve the right consistency. Instant potatoes provide a more consistent texture, while fresh potatoes may require additional flour to bind properly.
How thick should I roll out the dough?
Roll the dough as thin as possible without tearing, ideally about 1/16 inch thick. This allows for a perfect, soft texture once cooked. Thin lefsa will cook evenly and develop the desired light browning on both sides.
What can I use instead of margarine?
Unsalted butter or coconut oil can be used as alternatives to margarine. Both options will provide a rich flavor. If using coconut oil, ensure it is melted and at room temperature when mixed to maintain the right consistency.
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).