There’s nothing quite like the cozy comfort of homemade Norwegian lefse on a chilly day. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, promising warm, soft, and pillowy folds of thin potato flatbread that pairs beautifully with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of practice, you can create your own perfect lefse right in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the delightful process of making Norwegian lefse!
**Norwegian Lefse Recipe – How To Make Perfect Lefsa Every Time**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Potatoes:**
– Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. **Mash the Potatoes:**
– Drain the cooked potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and free of any lumps.
3. **Add the Butter and Seasonings:**
– Pour the melted butter over the mashed potatoes. Add salt, sugar, and heavy cream. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. **Incorporate the Flour:**
– Gradually add the flour to the potato mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet. If needed, add a bit more flour until you reach the desired consistency.
5. **Divide and Roll Out the Dough:**
– Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions. On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Use a floured rolling pin to help you achieve the desired thickness.
6. **Cook the Lefse:**
– Heat a griddle or a large skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled-out dough onto the hot surface and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown spots start to appear. Flip the lefse to cook both sides evenly.
7. **Keep Warm and Serve:**
– As you cook the lefse, keep the finished pieces warm by stacking them on a clean kitchen towel and covering them with another towel. This will help maintain their softness and prevent them from drying out.
8. **Enjoy Your Homemade Lefse:**
– Once all the lefse are cooked, serve them warm with your favorite toppings such as butter, cinnamon sugar, smoked salmon, cream cheese, or jam. Lefse also makes a delicious wrap for savory fillings like roast beef or vegetables.
If you find yourself with leftover lefse, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in a skillet or microwave before serving. With a bit of practice, you’ll soon master the art of making perfect Norwegian lefse every time, bringing a taste of Scandinavian comfort to your home. Happy cooking!
