General
lutefisk
What does lutefisk mean?
Dried whitefish reconstituted in lye, a gelatinous traditional Scandinavian dish served especially at Christmas in the Upper Midwest.
"Grandpa insists on lutefisk every Christmas Eve."
Origin
Norwegian and Swedish immigrant food tradition in Minnesota and the Dakotas.
Frequently asked questions
What is lutefisk?
Lutefisk is dried whitefish that's been soaked and reconstituted in lye, producing a soft, gelatinous dish traditionally served around Christmas.
Where is lutefisk eaten?
It's a Norwegian and Swedish immigrant food tradition, especially associated with holiday meals in Minnesota, the Dakotas, and the broader Upper Midwest.
Why is lutefisk made with lye?
The lye soak was historically a way to rehydrate and preserve dried fish; it gives lutefisk its distinctive gelatinous texture.
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