How To Cook Lutefisk: The Fish Soaked in LYE! 🤯 (Traditional Norwegian Recipe)

dried cod

🥗Healthier: fresh cod

💰Cheaper: pollock

Fresh cod offers a milder flavor and is often more readily available.

lye

🥗Healthier: brine solution

💰Cheaper: saltwater

Brine is safer and easier to use while still preserving the fish.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides a healthier fat option.

bacon

🥗Healthier: turkey bacon

💰Cheaper: smoked sausage

Turkey bacon reduces fat content while adding flavor.

Soak dried cod in cold water for several days, changing the water daily.

Prepare a lye solution by mixing lye with water in a well-ventilated area, following safety precautions.

Soak the cod in the lye solution for 24 hours, ensuring it is fully submerged.

Rinse the cod thoroughly in cold water to remove the lye, then soak in fresh water for another 2-3 days, changing the water daily.

Boil the lutefisk in salted water for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes translucent and flaky.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Transfer the boiled lutefisk to a baking dish and dot with butter.

Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.

Prepare side dishes such as boiled potatoes and peas while the lutefisk bakes.

Serve lutefisk hot, garnished with lemon, pepper, and onions, alongside the side dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens