Scandinavian Lutefisk Extravaganza for Eight

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound dried unsalted lutefisk
• 1 onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
• 3 carrots, chopped (1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (1 cup)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 8 slices pancetta or bacon, cooked crispy

Preparation Time:

• 1 hour (for soaking the lutefisk)
• 20 minutes (for chopping vegetables and making the roux)

Cooking Time:

• 1 hour (for cooking the lutefisk)

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Soak the lutefisk: Rinse the lutefisk under cold water and soak it in a large bowl of cold water for at least 6 hours or overnight (preferably 24 hours), changing the water every 4-6 hours.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and celery.
3. Make the roux: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the vegetables: Add the chopped vegetables to the roux and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
5. Drain the lutefisk: Drain the lutefisk and rinse it well under cold water. Remove any visible bones or skin.
6. Poach the lutefisk: Transfer the lutefisk to a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1 hour, or until the lutefisk is opaque and tender.
7. Make the sauce: Whisk the half and half into the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve: Remove the lutefisk from the poaching liquid and place it on a serving platter. Pour the sauce over the lutefisk and sprinkle with parsley. Garnish with crispy pancetta or bacon, if desired.

Nutritional Information:

• Serving size: 1/8 of the recipe
• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 20g

Dish Characteristics:

• Traditional Scandinavian dish with a modern twist
• Creamy, savory, and tangy flavor
• Elegant and flavorful presentation
• Perfect for special occasions or dinner parties

User Comments:

• "Absolutely divine! The sauce is heavenly."
• "I never thought I would like lutefisk, but this dish changed my mind. It's so delicious."
• "A truly special dish that impresses every time."
• "The perfect balance of flavors and textures."
• "Highly recommend this dish to anyone looking for a unique and memorable dining experience."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Choose a quality lutefisk: Look for lutefisk that is unsalted and evenly dried.
• Soak the lutefisk thoroughly: This will remove the excess salt and lye from the drying process.
• Do not overcook the lutefisk: Otherwise, it will become tough and rubbery.
• Serve the dish immediately: Lutefisk is best enjoyed fresh.