Lutefisk
Lutefisk is a traditional Scandinavian dish made from aged stockfish (air-dried cod) or dried and salted cod (klipfish) that has been rehydrated and treated with lye. The process gives the fish a distinctive gelatinous texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is particularly associated with Norwegian cuisine and is a traditional Christmas dish in many Nordic countries and among Scandinavian-American communities.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Lutefisk is an extremely lean, high-protein food with virtually no carbohydrates or fat, making it a very low-calorie dish (typically around 100-150 calories per serving). Its key nutrients are high-quality protein and essential minerals like selenium and phosphorus.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 115 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 0 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 1800 mg |
| Selenium | 45 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 15 mg |
| Magnesium | 35 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
Per 1 piece (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The unique preparation method, which involves a chemical transformation using lye (sodium hydroxide), is a fascinating example of food preservation technology developed centuries ago. Nutritionally, it stands out as a nearly pure protein source, often compared to egg whites in its macronutrient profile.
