Lutefisk with Traditional Accompaniments
Lutefisk, a traditional Norwegian dish made from dried whitefish treated with lye, is a polarizing but iconic part of Norwegian Christmas and winter cuisine. It's typically served with a variety of classic sides.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Lutefisk(dried, requires soaking and rinsing)
- for soaking and cooking Water
- to taste Salt
- 100 g Butter(melted, for serving)
- 150 g Crispy fried bacon(chopped)
- 300 g Peas(cooked, often mashed with butter and salt)
- 1 kg Boiled potatoes(small, new potatoes are traditional)
- to taste Mustard(strong, grainy mustard is preferred)
- as needed Flatbread (lefse)(soft or crisp varieties)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the lutefisk: Follow package instructions carefully for soaking and rinsing. This typically involves soaking in cold water for several days, changing the water multiple times daily, to remove the lye.
💡 Tip: Proper rinsing is crucial to remove the lye and any unpleasant taste. The fish will swell and become gelatinous. - 2
Once prepared, drain the lutefisk thoroughly. Place it in a pot with just enough water to cover. Add salt to taste.
💡 Tip: Avoid adding too much water, as it can dilute the flavor. - 3
Gently poach the lutefisk over low heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until it flakes easily. Do not boil vigorously, as this can break down the delicate texture.
💡 Tip: The fish should be tender and translucent when cooked. - 4
While the lutefisk is poaching, prepare the accompaniments: cook the potatoes until tender, fry the bacon until crispy, and prepare the mashed peas (often by mashing with butter and salt).
- 5
Drain the lutefisk carefully, reserving some of the poaching liquid if desired for a light sauce.
💡 Tip: Handle the lutefisk gently to maintain its structure. - 6
Serve the lutefisk hot, accompanied by bowls of melted butter, crispy bacon, mashed peas, boiled potatoes, mustard, and flatbread.
💡 Tip: Guests can assemble their own plates, combining the lutefisk with their preferred sides.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Lutefisk has a very unique texture and flavor; it's an acquired taste. If trying for the first time, be open-minded!
- ✓Ensure all traces of lye are removed during the soaking and rinsing process. This is the most critical step for palatability.
- ✓The accompaniments are key to balancing the lutefisk's texture and flavor. Don't skip the crispy bacon and mashed peas.
🔄 Variations
- Some regions serve lutefisk with a white sauce or a béchamel.
- A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can add a nice contrast.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream for a tangy element.