Our Lefse
Our Lefse is a traditional Scandinavian flatbread made from riced potatoes, butter, and flour, offering a delicate, slightly sweet flavor perfect for snacks or accompaniments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes in slightly salted water.
- Rice the cooked potatoes into a large bowl and add butter to melt.
- If potatoes are too cool to melt the butter, microwave briefly to melt it.
- Cool the mixture overnight.
- Next day, add flour, salt, and sugar to the potato mixture.
- Stir well to combine.
- Form into 2-inch balls.
- Roll each ball on a floured surface using a rolling pin covered with a stockinette, working flour into the surface to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the rolled Lefse to a griddle using a Lefse paddle.
- Bake until light brown spots form on one side.
- Flip and continue baking until golden.
- Keep baked Lefse covered to prevent drying out.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffier texture. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought riced potatoes. When rolling out the Lefse, ensure your surface and rolling pin are well-floured to prevent sticking. If you don't have a Lefse paddle, a regular spatula can work as a substitute to transfer the rolled dough.
Serving Suggestions
Lefse can be served warm with butter and sugar sprinkled on top, or paired with sweet spreads like jam or Nutella. For a savory option, try using them as wraps for meats or roasted vegetables. They also complement dishes like Polish Christmas Cookies as part of a festive meal. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing Low Calorie Jello Salad for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lefse in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them on a hot griddle for a few seconds on each side until warm, or microwave them briefly, covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Our Lefse contains roughly 1406 calories, with 24g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (91% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 17g 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 freeze Lefse?
Yes, Lefse freezes well! After baking, let them cool completely, then stack with parchment paper in between each piece and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the griddle.
What type of flour is best for Lefse?
All-purpose flour works best for making Lefse, providing the right balance of structure and tenderness. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it's a blend designed for baking, as it will give you the best texture.
Can I make Lefse without potatoes?
While traditional Lefse is made with potatoes, you can experiment with alternatives like cauliflower or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist. However, this will alter the texture and flavor, so be prepared for a different result. Adjust the flour and liquid accordingly to achieve the desired consistency.
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).