Lefse Love in the City of Angels
Lefse: The Potato Pancake That Stole California’s Heart
Okay, so you’re in LA, the land of tacos, sushi, and endless avocado toast. But what if your heart craves something a little different? Something warm, comforting, and with a hint of Scandinavian heritage? Enter lefse, the potato-based wonder that's slowly but surely winning over Angelenos.
Lefse: Not Just for Grandma’s Kitchen Anymore
If you’re unfamiliar, lefse is essentially a thin, soft flatbread made from potatoes, flour, and a whole lot of love. It’s traditionally a Norwegian dish, but let’s be honest, good food knows no borders. And if there’s one thing LA knows, it’s good food.
Where to Get Your Lefse Fix in LA
Now, finding lefse in LA might feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but fear not! Here are a few spots to start your lefse journey:
- Scandinavian Bakeries and Markets: While not as common as your average taco stand, there are a few Scandinavian bakeries and markets scattered around the city. Keep your eyes peeled for places that specialize in Nordic cuisine.
- Farmers Markets: If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a vendor selling homemade lefse at one of LA’s many farmers markets. It's a great way to support local businesses and discover hidden food gems.
- Make It Yourself: If you’re feeling adventurous (and have a bit of patience), you can always try making lefse at home. There are plenty of online recipes and tutorials to guide you through the process. Just remember, practice makes perfect (and delicious).
Tips for Enjoying Lefse
- Classic Combo: The classic way to enjoy lefse is with butter and sugar, but don’t be afraid to get creative.
- Sweet or Savory: Lefse can be enjoyed sweet or savory. Try it with smoked salmon, cream cheese, or even as a wrap for your favorite fillings.
- Warm it Up: For extra deliciousness, warm up your lefse in a skillet or toaster oven before serving.
So, there you have it! A brief guide to finding lefse in the City of Angels. While it might not be as ubiquitous as avocado toast, it’s definitely worth seeking out. Happy lefse hunting!
How-To Lefse FAQs
- How to store lefse: Lefse is best stored in the freezer, wrapped in plastic wrap.
- How to reheat lefse: Warm it up in a skillet or toaster oven until heated through.
- How to make lefse less dry: Add a little extra milk or cream to the dough.
- How to prevent lefse from sticking: Use plenty of flour when rolling out the dough.
- How to get the perfect lefse thickness: Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness.