Norwegian Lefsa
Norwegian Lefsa is a traditional soft potato flatbread with a delicate texture and mild flavor, perfect for serving with butter or sweet toppings for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the mashed potatoes and shortening together. Allow the mixture to cool in the refrigerator.
- Using 5 cups of the potato mixture, blend in cream, salt, sugar, and flour.
- Take a quarter of the dough, roll it out on a floured surface, working with small amounts at a time to prevent toughness.
- Cook each rolled-out piece on a flat plate or pan until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the mashed potatoes are well-blended and cooled before mixing with other ingredients. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the flavor slightly. When rolling out the dough, use a generous amount of flour to prevent sticking, and work in small batches to maintain the dough’s softness.
Serving Suggestions
Norwegian lefsa is best served warm, spread with butter and a sprinkle of sugar, or alongside traditional dishes like Buttered Rutabaga. For a sweet twist, try serving them with apricot cream or your favorite preserves. They can also be used as a wrap for savory fillings, providing a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lefsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, place a piece in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until warmed through. You can also wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Lefsa contains roughly 528 calories, with 8g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 900mg per serving (39% 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 instead of fresh?
While fresh mashed potatoes yield the best texture and flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just rehydrate them according to package instructions and ensure they are well-mixed with the other ingredients for best results.
How do I prevent the dough from becoming tough?
To prevent toughness, handle the dough as little as possible and avoid overworking it. Roll out small portions at a time and make sure your surface is adequately floured to minimize sticking, which can lead to excessive handling.
Can I freeze lefsa for later use?
Yes, lefsa freezes well! Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, ensuring they maintain their soft texture.
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).