The Fish That Is Cured In Lye

To create lutefisk, dried whitefish is soaked in caustic lye for days. This harsh chemical treatment transforms the rock-hard fish into a soft, gelatinous meal that is almost chemically alkaline.

Making lutefisk is a delicate science because lye is a strong base typically used in soap-making or drain cleaners. If the fish is left in the solution for too long, it can actually dissolve completely. After the lye bath, the fish must be soaked in fresh water for several days to neutralize the chemicals before it is safe to cook. It remains a traditional, polarizing dish served during the holidays in Nordic countries.