Lutefisk

5.0
(2)

This is a Scandinavian dish. Lutefisk is cod that was traditionally dried for storage through the winter. Then when it was time to use it, it was soaked in a mixture of lye and water, which rehydrated and softened it. The texture is like Jell-O and will fall apart easily so it needs to be handled carefully. It is an odd food for sure, fish-flavored Jell-O, so don't be too critical. Some people love it, others will hate it. This is just the best way I have found to prepare it.

lutefisk white fish with sliced hard boiled egg
2
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Additional Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
25 mins
Servings:
4
Yield:
4 servings
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

  • 1 pound dried lutefisk

  • 1 quart water

  • 1 ½ tablespoons salt

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions

  1. Bring water and salt to a rolling boil. Add lutefisk and return to a boil. Remove from the heat, cover, and let sit for 8 minutes. Check with an instant-read thermometer to make sure the internal temperature has reached 140 degrees F (60 degrees C).

  2. Carefully remove lutefisk from water using a scoop strainer or skimmer spoon. Cover with melted butter and serve immediately.

Cook’s Note

If you like a salty flavor, you can use up to 3 tablespoons salt per quart of water, but I don't care for that much.

If you are cooking 6 or more servings, you can use less water and salt, just keep the ratio of water to salt the same. The timing is important because you want to serve this fish as soon as it is ready.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

380 Calories
8g Fat
71g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Calories 380
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8g 11%
Saturated Fat 4g 21%
Cholesterol 188mg 63%
Sodium 10640mg 463%
Protein 71g 143%
Vitamin C 4mg 4%
Calcium 192mg 15%
Iron 3mg 16%
Potassium 1659mg 35%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.