Lefse
Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread made from mashed potatoes, offering a soft, slightly sweet flavor with a delicate, tender texture. Perfect for breakfast or snacks, it pairs well with butter, sugar, or savory toppings, making it a versatile treat suitable for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the mashed potatoes through a ricer and let them cool.
- Add salt, sugar, heated cream or condensed milk, and shortening to the cooled potatoes and mix well.
- Gradually add flour to the potato mixture, kneading until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each out on a floured surface to thin rounds.
- Bake each round on a hot lefse grill or griddle until lightly browned on both sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use starchy potatoes like Russets to achieve a smooth texture. If you want a lighter version, consider substituting some of the cream with low-fat milk. When rolling out the dough, keep your surface and rolling pin floured to prevent sticking. If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour gradually until it reaches the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lefse warm with butter and sugar or alongside savory dishes like smoked salmon or a hearty stew. They also pair beautifully with Crawfish Extraordinare. For a sweet treat, spread with jam or use as a wrap for your favorite fillings. Explore more vegetarian recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lefse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them on a hot skillet for a minute on each side or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lefse contains roughly 2190 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 241g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% 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 instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
While it's possible, using fresh mashed potatoes yields a better texture and flavor. Instant mashed potatoes may lead to a denser lefse, so if you must use them, adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly to avoid a dry dough.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, gradually incorporate more flour until it reaches a workable consistency. Remember to flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking while rolling out the lefse.
Can I freeze lefse for later use?
Yes, you can freeze lefse! Place parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).