As autumn turns to winter each year, one of the first thoughts that comes to mind is cooking with my dad. For as long as I can remember, my brother, dad, and I have made lefse at least once each winter. Lefse is a traditional Scandinavian flatbread that I would describe as a crepe made out of potatoes. To make lefse, you first boil potatoes- essentially making mashed potatoes- and then add flour before cooking it on a crepe maker or skillet. We eat them the second they are taken off the heat, garnishing with butter and cinnamon sugar, and occasionally strawberry jam and syrup.

Making lefse with my dad is an important family tradition that has been passed down from when his parents made it for him as a child. Its importance to me, however, extends beyond a tradition; it also symbolizes a connection to my dad’s side of the family, particularly my grandfather whom I have never met. 

 

– HS

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant