Lefse(Norwegian Dish)
Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread made from potatoes, butter, and cream, offering a soft, delicate texture with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for snacks or accompaniments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil potatoes, mash very fine, and add cream, butter, and salt. Beat until light and cool.
- Add flour to the mashed potato mixture.
- Take a piece of dough and roll as for pie crust, rolling as thin as possible.
- Bake on top of a grill, one at a time, until light brown, turning frequently to prevent scorching.
- Use a very hot griddle or in a 12-inch skillet (475°F).
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the potatoes are well-mashed and cooled before mixing in the cream and butter. If you're out of sweet cream, you can substitute with heavy cream or half-and-half. When rolling the dough, use plenty of flour to prevent sticking, and consider using a pastry cloth for easy cleanup. Serve with butter or sugar for an authentic experience.
Serving Suggestions
Lefse is traditionally served with butter and sugar, making it a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with Apricot Almond Bread for a sweet brunch spread. Consider serving alongside a fresh Cucumber Medley for a refreshing contrast. You can also enjoy lefse as a wrap for savory fillings or as a side to your favorite soups.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lefse in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. They can be refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them on a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side until warmed through. You can also microwave them briefly, but be careful not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lefse(Norwegian Dish) contains roughly 410 calories, with 6g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 instead of fresh?
While fresh potatoes yield the best flavor and texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just follow the package instructions to prepare them, then mix in the cream and butter as directed. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly from traditional lefse.
How do I know when the lefse is cooked?
Cook the lefse until it turns light brown and has small bubbles appearing on the surface. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes on each side. Be sure to turn them frequently to avoid scorching, especially on a hot griddle at 475°F.
Can I freeze lefse for later use?
Yes, lefse freezes well! Allow them to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between each piece to prevent sticking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
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).