Lutefisk

Norwegians have strong opinions about lutefisk. Most claim it tastes like heaven on earth. Others claim its a national disgrace.

Lutefisk from Scratch

Feeds 10 people
Time needed is about 2 weeks. Do not make lutefisk in the warm season.

Ingredients:
1 kg dried fish
100 g caustic soda
30 liters of water

Saw the fish in suitably sized pieces or leave it whole. Put in water. Leave in water in a cool place for 5-6 days if cut in pieces, 8 days if the fish is whole. Change the water every day.

For the luting use a plastic or stainless steel or enameled tub (the enamel must be unchipped). Wooden vessels, china or stoneware may also be used.

On the seventh day, place the fish in the tub with the skin side up. Dissolve caustic soda in the water, pour over the fish until covered complete by lut water. Leave the fish in a cold place for 3-4 days.

When the fish is completely luted, it will be well swollen and you should be able to put a finger through it. Rinse the fish and leave in cold water 4-6 days. Change water every day.

If the fish stays in water for too long after the luting, it may be soft and difficult to boil. Test boil a piece, if you are uncertain.

1 kg dry fish makes about 5 kg lutefisk.

(Cappelens Kokebok, Ed.: Aase Stromstad, Oslo 1968)

Found at http://www.edlis.org/twice/threads/lutefisk.html#recipe