‘Tis the season, folks! While we are referring to the holiday season, we’re not talking about the Christmas lights, the famous Christmas at the Capitol, or anything of the like, but instead, South Dakota’s most, dare we say, controversial tradition, which is whipping up a batch of lutefisk. Hate it or love it, Christmas lutefisk is here to stay, and here is why:

If you are new to South Dakota or are one of the very few who are not of Norwegian descent, lutefisk is a part of the traditional Nordic Christmas feast. It consists of white fish that is soaked in cold water for 5 days, moved to a cold water and lye bath for another 2 days, and then soaked in another vat of cold water for up to a week before finally being cooked. 
Wikimedia Commons
Because of its unique way of being prepared, lutefisk comes out with a jelly-like texture and strong taste that some love and others despise. 
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Since preparing the lutefisk is time-consuming, it is considered to be somewhat of a special treat, which is not only enjoyed by South Dakotans during the Christmas season but other states with a sizeable Nordic population, plus Canada and - you guessed it - Norway and Sweden. 
Flickr/mtcarlson

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While different parts of the world pair their lutefisk with several different sides, South Dakotans love their homemade lefse and potatoes, which was passed down to many of us via older generations. 
Wikimedia Commons
Do you want to reap the reward without doing the work and enjoy lutefisk sooner than later? Check with your local churches and restaurants, as many of them serve this South Dakota favorite this time of year. 
Flickr/Paul Swansen
We want to hear from you: Do you love or hate your lutefisk? We invite you to sound off in the comments! 
Flickr/Sharon Hahn Darlin

For even more iconic Only in South Dakota foods, check out Here Are The 9 Dishes You Have To Eat In South Dakota Before You Die.

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