Definition

1. Noun:
   • A traditional Scandinavian dish: "lutfisk" refers to dried cod that has been soaked in a lye (potassium hydroxide) solution and then boiled, resulting in a distinctive gelatinous or jelly-like consistency.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • For our Christmas dinner, we always serve lutfisk with white sauce and peas.
  • The preparation of authentic lutfisk requires patience, as the dried fish must soak for several days.

Advanced Usage

• Cultural Context: "Lutfisk" is strongly associated with holiday traditions, particularly Christmas, in Nordic countries and among Scandinavian communities abroad.
  • The church's annual lutefisk supper is a major event for the local Norwegian-American community.

Variants and Related Words

• Lutefisk: This is the most common alternate spelling in English for the same dish.
• Lye fish: A direct, descriptive English translation sometimes used.

Synonyms

• Lye-soaked cod: A descriptive synonym.
• Lutefisk: The alternate spelling is considered a synonym.

Notes on Meaning

• The word "lutfisk" specifically denotes the prepared food item. It does not refer to fresh cod or to the lye solution itself. The unique preparation process is central to its definition.

Noun

1. dried cod soaked in a lye solution before boiling to give it a gelatinous consistency