Savory Potato Lefse
Potato Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread that brings a deliciously unique twist to any meal. Made with soft russet potatoes, this savory bread is not only a delightful accompaniment to soups and stews but can also be enjoyed with sweet toppings like butter and sugar. This recipe pays homage to our diverse culinary heritage, similar to various international flatbreads, but it stands out by incorporating the comforting essence of potato. With its moist texture and subtle flavor, Potato Lefse is perfect for gatherings, serving as an ideal vessel for all sorts of fillings or simply enjoyed on its own. Let this rustic and versatile bread become a staple in your kitchen, offering a taste of tradition with every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
russet potatoes
2 1/2 lbs (peeled and cut in half)
butter
2 tablespoons (room temperature)
milk
1/4 cup (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
all-purpose flour
2 cups (plus additional for rolling and dusting)
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling the peeled and halved russet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, allowing them to steam over low heat for a few minutes to remove excess moisture, taking care not to brown them.
2
Using a potato ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth and fluffy. Transfer the riced potatoes to a heavy-duty electric mixer bowl.
3
Add butter, milk, and salt to the bowl with the mashed potatoes. Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until a non-sticky dough forms. You may need to adjust the amount of flour based on potato moisture.
4
Once the dough is well combined, knead it gently on a floured surface until smooth. Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces.
5
Roll each piece into an 8-10 inch circle on a lightly floured surface, using minimal flour to prevent sticking while helping the dough keep its soft texture.
6
Preheat an electric griddle or a frying pan to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the surface with oil.
7
Carefully shake off excess flour from each rolled circle and place it onto the hot pan. Cook until bubbles form and the bottom is lightly browned, about 1.5 minutes.
8
Flip the lefse using a spatula and cook the other side for another minute, or until it has developed some color.
9
Remove the cooked lefse and stack them on a wire rack, or wrap them in aluminum foil to keep warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven.
10
These lefse can be frozen for later use. Reheat them quickly on the griddle or in a frying pan before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Potato Lefse?
Potato Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread made primarily with russet potatoes, creating a unique and comforting bread.
What cultural heritage does this recipe represent?
This recipe pays homage to Norwegian culinary heritage and is similar to various international flatbreads.
Which type of potato is recommended for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are recommended for their soft texture and starch content, which makes them ideal for mashing and dough making.
How should I prepare the potatoes?
The potatoes should be peeled and cut in half, then boiled in salted water until tender.
Why is it important to steam the potatoes after draining?
Steaming the potatoes over low heat for a few minutes removes excess moisture, which ensures the dough doesn't become too sticky.
What tool is best for mashing the potatoes?
A potato ricer is best for achieving a smooth and fluffy texture for the base of the dough.
What ingredients are added to the riced potatoes first?
After ricing, you should add room temperature butter, milk, and salt to the bowl.
How much butter is needed for Savory Potato Lefse?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of room temperature butter.
How much flour is required for the dough?
You will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, plus additional flour for rolling and dusting the surface.
How do I know if I need more flour than the recipe states?
The amount of flour may need to be adjusted based on the specific moisture level of your potatoes to reach a non-sticky consistency.
What is the desired final texture of the dough?
The dough should be well combined, smooth, and non-sticky.
Should the dough be kneaded?
Yes, once the dough is combined, it should be kneaded gently on a floured surface until it is smooth.
How many pieces should the dough be divided into?
The dough should be divided into 24 equal pieces.
What size should each Lefse circle be rolled into?
Each piece should be rolled into a circle measuring approximately 8 to 10 inches.
What is the trick to rolling the dough without it sticking?
Use a lightly floured surface and minimal flour to prevent sticking while maintaining the soft texture of the dough.
At what temperature should I preheat the griddle?
The electric griddle or frying pan should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Do I need to grease the cooking surface?
Yes, the surface should be lightly greased with oil before cooking.
What should I do with excess flour before cooking the dough?
You should carefully shake off any excess flour from the rolled circle before placing it on the hot pan.
How long does the first side of the Lefse take to cook?
The first side should cook for about 1.5 minutes, or until bubbles form and the bottom is lightly browned.
How long does the second side of the Lefse take to cook?
After flipping, the second side typically takes about one minute to develop color.
What should I use to flip the Lefse?
A spatula is the best tool for flipping the thin flatbread safely.
How should cooked Lefse be stored while finishing the batch?
Stack the cooked lefse on a wire rack or wrap them in aluminum foil to keep them warm.
Can I keep the Lefse warm in the oven?
Yes, you can wrap them in foil and place them in a 200 degree Fahrenheit (93 degree Celsius) oven.
Can Savory Potato Lefse be frozen?
Yes, these flatbreads can be frozen and used at a later time.
How do I reheat frozen Lefse?
Reheat them quickly on a griddle or in a frying pan until warm before serving.
What is the texture of Potato Lefse?
It has a moist texture and a subtle potato flavor, making it soft and rustic.
What are some common toppings for Potato Lefse?
It can be served with savory fillings for soups and stews, or sweet toppings like butter and sugar.
Is Potato Lefse a good option for gatherings?
Yes, it is an ideal vessel for various fillings and serves as a versatile staple for group meals.
What are the main tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include lefse, flatbread, potato bread, Norwegian cuisine, and comfort food.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 5 main ingredients: russet potatoes, butter, milk, salt, and all-purpose flour.