Potato Lefse

Traditional Norwegian Potato Lefse Recipe | Authentic Cuisine from Norway

Region / culture: Norway | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Potato lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread made with potatoes, flour, sugar, butter, and milk. It is a popular dish during holidays and special occasions, often served with butter and sugar. This recipe is a delicious and comforting treat that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Lefse has been a staple in Norwegian cuisine for centuries, with recipes passed down through generations. Originally, lefse was made with leftover potatoes and flour to create a simple and filling bread. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, with some adding sugar and butter for a sweeter taste. Today, lefse is enjoyed not only in Norway but also in other Scandinavian countries and by people of Scandinavian descent around the world.

Ingredients

1 qt (946 ml) of boiled and riced potatoes
0.5 cup of sugar
0.5 cup of butter
2 tsp of salt
0.5 cup of milk
0.67-0.67 cup of carnation instant milk
4-5 cups of flour

How to prepare

Peel, boil, and mash the potatoes.
Heat the milk and add the butter, sugar, and salt.
Combine the milk mixture with the mashed potatoes and mix well.
Allow the mixture to cool overnight.
Add flour to the mixture to form a stiff dough.
Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls.
Cook the dough balls on a large griddle.
Flip the dough balls and cook the other side.
Place the cooked dough balls on waxed paper, stacking them up.
Cover the stacked dough balls with another piece of waxed paper to prevent drying out.
Store the dough balls in an airtight container.
Before serving, lightly butter the dough balls and sprinkle them with sugar, then roll them up and enjoy.

Variations

Add cinnamon and sugar to the lefse for a sweeter flavor.
Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Add grated cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rice the potatoes thoroughly to ensure a smooth texture in the dough.

- Allow the dough to cool overnight to make it easier to work with.

- Use a large griddle to cook the lefse, flipping them when they start to bubble.

- Store the cooked lefse in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

- Lightly butter and sugar the lefse before serving for a delicious finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve potato lefse warm with butter and sugar for a sweet and savory treat.

Cooking Techniques

Use a large griddle to cook the lefse evenly.

- Roll out the dough balls thinly for a light and crispy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

- Cook the lefse ahead of time and reheat them in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Roll the lefse into cones for a fun and festive presentation. - Serve the lefse on a platter with fresh berries and whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve potato lefse with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

- Pair potato lefse with smoked salmon and cream cheese for a delicious appetizer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover lefse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat lefse in the oven or microwave until warm before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of potato lefse contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of potato lefse contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of potato lefse contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of potato lefse contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Potato lefse is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Potato lefse is a delicious and comforting treat that is relatively low in calories and fat. It is a good source of carbohydrates and provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Potato lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread that is easy to make and delicious to eat. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting treat that is perfect for holidays and special occasions. Serve potato lefse warm with butter and sugar for a sweet and savory snack that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Lefseville. My mother had passed down her love of cooking to me, and I was always eager to learn new recipes and techniques. One day, a family friend from Norway came to visit and brought with her the most delicious potato lefse I had ever tasted.

I was intrigued by this traditional Norwegian flatbread and begged our friend to teach me how to make it. She was more than happy to share her knowledge and invited me into her kitchen to watch and learn. I was amazed at how simple the ingredients were – just potatoes, flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. But it was the technique that truly made the lefse special.

Our friend showed me how to boil the potatoes until they were soft, then mash them until they were smooth and creamy. She added in the flour, butter, and salt, and kneaded the dough until it was soft and pliable. Then came the most exciting part – rolling out the dough into thin circles and cooking them on a hot griddle until they were golden brown and crispy.

I was mesmerized by the process and couldn't wait to try making it on my own. Our friend gifted me with a special rolling pin and lefse stick to help me get started. I spent hours in my own kitchen, practicing and perfecting the recipe. And soon enough, I was able to make potato lefse that rivaled our friend's.

Over the years, I have continued to make this recipe for potato lefse, and it has become a staple in our family. I have passed down the recipe to my own children and grandchildren, and it always brings back fond memories of that day in Lefseville when I first discovered the magic of this delicious flatbread.

Now, whenever I make potato lefse, I can't help but think of our family friend from Norway and the joy she brought into our lives with her simple yet delicious recipe. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and share love and laughter around the table. And I am grateful for the memories and traditions that have been passed down through the generations, all starting with a humble recipe for potato lefse.