Lutefisk

Cuisine: Scandinavian

Creamy butter and mustard sauce complements the delicate, flaky lutefisk, creating a rich and flavorful dish perfect for those seeking traditional Scandinavian cuisine with a hearty touch.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 2 Tbsp. flour
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1 c. milk
  • dash of pepper
  • 1 tsp. yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan; whisk in flour and salt until smooth.
  2. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  3. Add a dash of pepper and blend in yellow mustard if desired.
  4. Serve the sauce over cooked lutefisk.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother sauce, ensure the butter is completely melted before whisking in the flour. If you're out of yellow mustard, Dijon can be a great substitute, adding a bit more tang. For a gluten-free option, replace flour with cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold water to thicken the sauce. This recipe is also versatile; consider adding herbs like dill for additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sauce generously over cooked lutefisk, which can be paired with boiled potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Baked Spanish Sweet Onion Rings, adding a delightful crunch to the dish. For a traditional touch, serve with lingonberry sauce on the side.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. If it thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency before serving again.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lutefisk contains roughly 267 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 760mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

267 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.3g 9% DV
Total Fat 8.1g 10% DV
Carbs 44.3g 16% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 27.8g 56% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 759.7mg 33% DV
Potassium 183.4mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 7.4mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 114.5mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 15.5mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 252.1mg 19% DV
Iron 3.8mg 21% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
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

What type of lutefisk should I use?

Choose high-quality, dried lutefisk for the best texture and flavor. Look for options at specialty stores or online. Remember, lutefisk is traditionally made from cod, but you can also find variations made from other white fish.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce in advance. Simply prepare it and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Consider adding spices such as garlic powder or smoked paprika to the sauce for extra depth. Fresh herbs, like chives or parsley, can also be stirred in just before serving to enhance the overall flavor profile.

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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