Vegan Lefse

Lefse is a Norwegian flat bread made of potatoes. The potato was introduced to Norway over 250 years ago, and likewise into their diets before the famine of the mid 1800s. It flourished again during WWII because it was easy to grow and not the first commodity given entirely to occupying soldiers. Because it is fairly time-consuming to make, it is often saved for holidays. Its ingredients usually include potatoes, butter, milk, and salt to make this traditional specialty. Fortunately, the vegan version tastes exactly the same without any extra effort.

You will need a lot of flour (of your choice, a more neutral flavor is better), a tea cloth, tape, griddle, and lefse stick. I've heard some use an unused wooden paint stirrer. A lefse stick has beveled sides, making it easier to work with the delicate "dough." You can buy a cheap one for less than $10 online or for even less in specialty shops. I suggest investing in a higher quality lefse stick if this is a recipe you enjoy. Note this does not come from a lefse snob--it is simply a fact that higher quality lefse sticks make the whole process easier.

You can use any large griddle. This picture is of a traditional lefse griddle, but as long as you are using a very hot surface with no sides, the lack of an obscure vintage griddle should present no difficulty.

It often takes practice, but the more you make it and better lefse stick you have, this soft flat bread is worth it for special occasions.