Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, is a beloved part of Norway’s culinary heritage. Made from potatoes, flour, butter, and cream, this soft flatbread is often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. It’s versatile, serving as both a savory and sweet treat. Whether you choose to enjoy it with butter and sugar or alongside savory dishes, making lefse at home is a rewarding experience. Here’s a classic recipe to help you create this delightful Norwegian favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform pieces. Boil in salted water until tender, then drain well.
- Mash and Mix:
- While the potatoes are still warm, mash them thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add butter, heavy cream, and salt to the mashed potatoes. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Cool and Chill:
- Allow the potato mixture to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to work with.
- Form the Dough:
- After chilling, mix the potato mixture with the flour until a soft dough forms. The dough should be pliable but not sticky. You may need to adjust the amount of flour slightly.
- Roll Out the Lefse:
- Preheat a large griddle or flat frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- On a well-floured surface, roll each ball into a very thin circle, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Use a lefse rolling pin if available, or a regular rolling pin.
- Cook the Lefse:
- Place the rolled dough onto the hot griddle. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until light brown spots appear.
- Remove from the griddle and place between clean kitchen towels to keep warm and soft.
- Serve:
- Lefse can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Traditionally, it’s served with butter and sugar rolled up inside, but it can also be paired with savory items like smoked salmon or used as a wrap for various fillings.
Tips for Perfect Lefse:
- Uniform Thickness: Ensure the dough is rolled out evenly to avoid thick and thin spots, which can cook unevenly.
- Temperature Control: Keep an eye on the griddle temperature. If it’s too hot, the lefse will burn before it cooks through; too low, and it will dry out.
- Storage: Store lefse in a cool, dry place. They can be frozen for longer storage and thawed at room temperature.
Cultural Significance:
Lefse is more than just a flatbread in Norway; it’s a symbol of tradition and family gatherings. Often made during Christmas and other festive times, the process of making lefse is a cherished activity passed down through generations. Sharing lefse is a way to connect with Norwegian roots and celebrate the simplicity and beauty of home-cooked food.
Creating lefse at home is a wonderful way to experience Norwegian culture and cuisine. With its simple ingredients and versatile nature, lefse can be enjoyed in many different ways, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking to try something new or reconnect with your heritage, this traditional Norwegian flatbread will surely bring joy and warmth to your table.