About Lutefisk
Lutefisk is a traditional Scandinavian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is particularly popular in Norway and Sweden, where it is often served during the Christmas season. The dish is made from dried whitefish, commonly cod, that has been soaked in lye, also known as sodium hydroxide, for several days. This process of soaking in lye gives lutefisk its unique texture and pungent smell.After the lye treatment, the fish is rinsed thoroughly to remove any traces of lye. It is then soaked in water for an extended period to rehydrate and soften the fish. The texture of lutefisk is often described as gelatinous and jelly-like, with a translucent appearance. Many people either love or hate lutefisk due to its unique characteristics.Traditionally, lutefisk is served with a variety of accompaniments to balance its strong flavor. These may include boiled potatoes, mushy peas, bacon, mustard sauce, and melted butter. The dish is often enjoyed as a part of a festive holiday meal, where friends and family gather to share the unique tradition of lutefisk. Despite its polarizing nature, lutefisk continues to be cherished as a cultural delicacy and an important part of Scandinavian cuisine.
Steps
Step 1:
- Soak lutefisk in cold water for 2-3 days, changing the water daily.
- Keep the lutefisk in a cool place during the soaking process.
Step 2:
- Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C).
Step 3:
- Rinse the soaked lutefisk under cold water to remove any excess lye.
- Place it in a large baking dish.
Step 4:
- Pour enough boiling water over the lutefisk to cover it.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
Step 5:
- Bake the lutefisk in the preheated oven for about 1 hour.
- Check for doneness by testing the flakes with a fork. They should easily separate.
Step 6:
- Once done, remove the lutefisk from the oven and drain any excess liquid.
Step 7:
- Serve the lutefisk hot with melted butter, white sauce, or mustard sauce.
- Accompany with boiled potatoes, peas, and lefse (traditional Norwegian flatbread) if desired.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 204 | 408 |
| Protein | 20g | 40g |
| Fat | 0g | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 51g | 102g |
| Sodium | 0.4g | 0.8g |
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lutefisk | 1 pound |
| Water | 4 cups |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| White pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Potatoes | 1 pound |
| Peas and carrots | For serving (optional) |
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