Norwegian Rye and Potato Flatbreads (Lefse)
Experience the authentic flavors of Norway with these delightful Rye and Potato Flatbreads, known as Lefse. These traditional pancakes are crafted with tender, mashed potatoes combined with nutty rye flour, creating a smooth, pliable dough that's rolled out into thin rounds. Traditionally served warm with butter and cream for a sweet treat or sprinkled with cinnamon sugar for a delectable coffee companion, these flatbreads can also complement savory dishes. Imagine them paired with crispy fried bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even with local goat cheese, Snøfrisk, or smoked reindeer meat. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a unique breakfast, Lefse is a versatile dish that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Norway.
N/A
Servings
120
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boiled potatoes, mashed
500 g (Boil, peel, and mash the potatoes until smooth.)
Rye flour
100 g (Sift before measuring to ensure no lumps.)
Sugar
1 teaspoon (Use granulated sugar.)
Salt
1 teaspoon (Use fine sea salt for even distribution.)
Fat for cooking
as needed (Use a vegetable oil for a vegetarian option or butter for traditional flavor.)
Instructions
1
Begin by placing the boiled, mashed potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Ensure they are completely smooth with no lumps for the best texture.
2
Gradually add the rye flour, sugar, and salt to the potatoes, mixing well until combined.
3
Slowly incorporate water, a little at a time, kneading the dough gently until it becomes soft and pliable. The dough should not be sticky.
4
Divide the dough into small balls, approximately the size of a hen's egg. Each ball will form one Lefse.
5
On a well-floured surface, roll each ball out into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick, making sure to keep the surface and rolling pin floured to prevent sticking.
6
Preheat a flat griddle, hotplate, or skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush it with your choice of fat.
7
Carefully transfer the rolled-out Lefse onto the hot surface and cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 1-2 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8
Remove the Lefse and keep them warm while you cook the rest. They should be soft and pliable.
9
Serve warm with your preferred toppings or accompaniments as suggested above.
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
15g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Norwegian Lefse?
Lefse are traditional Norwegian rye and potato flatbreads that are soft, pliable, and similar to a pancake, often served with sweet or savory toppings.
What are the primary ingredients for this Lefse recipe?
The main ingredients include 500g of boiled mashed potatoes, 100g of rye flour, one teaspoon of sugar, one teaspoon of salt, and fat for cooking.
How many calories are in a serving of these flatbreads?
Each serving of these Norwegian Rye and Potato Flatbreads contains 120 calories.
What type of flour is used in this specific recipe?
This recipe specifically uses 100g of rye flour to give the flatbreads a nutty flavor.
How should I prepare the potatoes for the dough?
You should boil, peel, and mash the potatoes until they are completely smooth with no lumps to ensure the best texture for the dough.
How thin should I roll out the Lefse dough?
Each dough ball should be rolled out on a well-floured surface into a thin circle approximately 1/8 inch thick.
What size should the dough balls be before rolling?
The dough should be divided into small balls roughly the size of a hen's egg.
What are some traditional sweet toppings for Lefse?
Traditionally, Lefse is served warm with butter and cream, or sprinkled with cinnamon sugar.
Can Lefse be served with savory ingredients?
Yes, it pairs well with crispy fried bacon, sauteed mushrooms, local goat cheese like Snøfrisk, or smoked reindeer meat.
How long do I cook each side of the flatbread?
Cook the Lefse for about 1-2 minutes on the first side until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
What is the fat content in one serving?
There are 5g of fat per serving of this recipe.
How much protein is in these potato flatbreads?
Each serving provides 2.5g of protein.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
There are 15g of carbohydrates per serving.
What equipment is needed to cook Lefse?
You can use a flat griddle, a hotplate, or a regular skillet over medium heat.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking while rolling?
Ensure both the rolling surface and the rolling pin are well-floured throughout the process.
Is water required for the dough?
Yes, water should be incorporated slowly, a little at a time, until the dough becomes soft and pliable.
What is the recommended preparation for the rye flour?
The rye flour should be sifted before measuring to ensure there are no lumps in the mixture.
What kind of salt is best for this recipe?
Fine sea salt is recommended for even distribution throughout the dough.
What fat should I use for cooking?
You can use vegetable oil for a vegetarian option or butter for a more traditional flavor.
How do I know the dough is the right consistency?
The dough should be soft and pliable, but it should not be sticky to the touch.
Should Lefse be served warm or cold?
Lefse is best served warm; you should keep them warm as you finish cooking the remaining dough balls.
Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?
Yes, Lefse makes for a unique breakfast, brunch, or even a dessert.
Does this recipe include sugar?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar mixed into the dough.
What is the origin of this dish?
Lefse is a traditional dish from Norway.
What is the texture of the finished flatbread?
The finished flatbreads should be soft, thin, and pliable.
How many ingredients are in this recipe total?
There are 5 total ingredients: potatoes, rye flour, sugar, salt, and cooking fat.
Can I use any type of potato?
The recipe specifies boiled and mashed potatoes; generally, starchy potatoes work best for mashing smoothly.
Do I need to grease the griddle?
Yes, you should lightly brush the cooking surface with your choice of fat before cooking.
How do I knead the dough?
Knead the dough gently after adding water until it reaches the desired soft consistency.
What flavor does the rye flour add?
The rye flour adds a distinct nutty flavor to the potato-based dough.