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Norwegian Lapskaus: Hearty Vegetable and Meat Stew

Lapskaus is a comforting Norwegian stew, perfect for a chilly evening. This hearty dish combines tender meat and root vegetables in a rich, savory broth, offering a taste of traditional Nordic home cooking.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 pounds of beef stew meat and brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat and set aside.

02

Add 1 large chopped onion to the pot and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Return the browned beef to the pot.

03

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

04

Add 3 medium cubed potatoes, 2 medium sliced carrots, and 1 medium cubed rutabaga to the pot. Increase heat to medium-low, cover, and continue to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender.

05

Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.

About This Recipe

Lapskaus is a comforting Norwegian stew, perfect for a chilly evening. This hearty dish combines tender meat and root vegetables in a rich, savory broth, offering a taste of traditional Nordic home cooking.
Norwegian Lapskaus: Hearty Vegetable and Meat Stew
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For a thicker stew, mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot before serving. This will naturally thicken the broth without needing additional flour or cornstarch.
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Easy Substitutions

You can substitute lamb or pork for beef stew meat. Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or celery root. Vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Lapskaus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats well on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Norwegian Lapskaus with a side of crusty rye bread for dipping. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a nice touch. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Common Mistakes

1. Not browning the meat: Skipping this step can result in less flavorful stew. Always brown the meat thoroughly to develop a rich base. 2. Overcooking vegetables: Add vegetables later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy. They should be tender but still hold their shape. 3. Insufficient simmering time: The beef needs adequate time to become tender. Don't rush the initial simmering phase. 4. Not seasoning properly: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving, as flavors can mellow during cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Lapskaus in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the meat and sauté the onion on the stovetop, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the root vegetables during the last 1.5-2 hours of cooking.

What kind of beef is best for Lapskaus?

Chuck roast or stew meat are excellent choices as they become very tender with long, slow cooking.

Can I freeze Lapskaus?

Yes, Lapskaus freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
MORE TO KNOW
Lapskaus is traditionally a way to use up leftover meats and vegetables, making it a very adaptable dish. The key to its comforting flavor is the slow simmering that allows the flavors to meld and the ingredients to become incredibly tender. While often served as a rustic, chunky stew, some variations involve mashing all the ingredients together for a smoother consistency. This recipe provides a balanced approach, leaving some texture while ensuring all components are soft and flavorful.
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