Lapskaus

Lapskaus

Lapskaus (LAHP-skows)

Norwegian Stew

Prep Time 90 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 422 kcal

Hearty one-pot stew of beef, root vegetables, and potatoes, slowly simmered until thick. A comforting everyday Norwegian classic.

Nutrition & Info

440 kcal per serving
Protein 35.0g
Carbs 30.0g
Fat 18.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten

Equipment Needed

large heavy pot or dutch oven cutting board sharp knife

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep bowl

Garnishes: fresh parsley

Accompaniments: flatbread

Instructions

  1. 1

    Brown beef cubes in butter in a large heavy pot. Remove and set aside.

  2. 2

    Add onion to pot, cook until softened. Return beef to pot with broth.

  3. 3

    Simmer covered for 45 minutes. Add potatoes, carrots, and rutabaga.

  4. 4

    Continue simmering 30-40 minutes until vegetables are very tender and stew is thick. Some versions mash partially for a chunkier texture. Season and serve with flatbread.

💡

Did You Know?

There are two Norwegian lapskaus camps: those who make it brown (with browned meat) and those who make it light (without browning). The debate is endless.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large heavy pot or dutch oven
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife

Garnishing

fresh parsley

Accompaniments

flatbread

The Story Behind Lapskaus

Lapskaus is Norwegian comfort food at its most fundamental: a thick stew of meat and root vegetables simmered until everything melds together. The dish has working-class origins and was historically a way to make tough cuts of meat tender and stretch them with abundant vegetables.

The name is related to the English word lobscouse, connecting it to a family of sailors' stews found across northern Europe. Norwegian lapskaus is distinguished by its use of rutabaga and the preference for a very thick, almost mash-like consistency.

Every Norwegian household has a lapskaus recipe, and it remains one of the most commonly cooked weeknight dinners. The dish improves with reheating, making it ideal for cooking in large batches.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed weekday dinner 📜 Origins: 18th century

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