The scraps stuck to the bottom of a cooking pot are supper enough for Pottasleikir. Known as Pot Licker, the fifth Yule Lad arrives during the night of December 15th, ready for the morning of December 16th. With his long tongue and a taste for leftovers, he can leave a pot shiny clean. Just do not mistake his appetite for an offer to help with the washing-up.
Spoiling Supper to Steal the Scraps
In the telling shared here, Pottasleikir has a sneaky way of making sure there will be plenty left for him. He lurks near the kitchen as dinner is prepared. If the cook walks away, he slips in and adds so many spices that nobody wants to eat the food. Once dinner is over, the leftovers are his.
Even when that trick fails, there are still the crisp, burnt-on scraps at the bottom of the pot. Those are a treat to Pottasleikir. His appetite is a mischievous reminder to make the most of a meal: food is too precious to waste, especially during the winter months.
One Last Scraping Before Going Home
On December 29th, Pottasleikir leaves the cooking pots behind and heads home. Your kitchen is safe from this particular visitor for another year—but next Christmas, keep an eye on what is left in the pot.
A Knock at the Door: Pot Scraper in Verse
Pot Scraper
Another Verse for the Hungry Pot Scraper
The Scraps Nobody Else Could Claim
Whether he spoils the supper or distracts the children, Pottasleikir keeps his attention on the same prize: whatever remains in the pot. Among the Yule Lads, even the last scrap has someone waiting to steal it.
Meet the previous visitor, Þvörusleikir, the Spoon Licker, then continue to Askasleikir. You can also meet their mother, Grýla, or explore all the Yule Lad stories.
