Norwegian Lefse
Norwegian Lefse is a traditional soft flatbread made from mashed potatoes, offering a mildly sweet and buttery flavor perfect for breakfast or snacks, suited for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chill the baked potatoes and mash or rice them.
- Add salt, melted butter, and half and half to the mashed potatoes, blending well.
- On a floured surface, roll out the potato mixture into 6-inch tortillas.
- Bake each tortilla on a griddle until brown spots begin to appear.
- Serve warm with butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes but adjust the butter and cream to your taste. Ensure the dough is not too sticky while rolling; dust with flour as needed. You can also experiment by adding spices or herbs for a unique twist, similar to how you might enhance flavors in Vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lefse warm, spread with butter or cinnamon sugar for a delightful treat. They pair beautifully with sweet toppings like jam or honey, or savory fillings such as smoked salmon. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside dishes like Indonesian Gado Gado for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lefse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, place them on a hot griddle for about 30 seconds on each side to restore their softness. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave, but avoid overcooking, as they may become dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Lefse contains roughly 622 calories, with 8g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (42% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 881mg 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 make lefse ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare lefse ahead of time. They can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper before freezing to prevent sticking.
What type of potatoes are best for lefse?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for making lefse, as they yield a fluffy texture when mashed. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can create a denser dough that doesn't roll out as smoothly.
Can I use milk instead of half and half?
Yes, you can substitute milk for half and half in this recipe. However, using half and half provides a richer flavor and creamier texture. If you prefer a lighter option, opt for whole milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, adjusting the butter accordingly.
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).