I'd say we're characters indeed. Not to mention the characters we use that is not part of the English language.
The mere idea of coming up with a dish such as lutfisk is strange in itself. But I think your sorce is wrong. Most of it fits, but to the best of my knowledge (and experience). That fish is odorless.
Now, fermented herring (surstr?mming) on the other hand, is a dish of fish, best served in remote areas. The bulging cans should be opened (actually, they shouldn't be opened at all, but turned in to secure waste disposal) under water in a bucket.
Neither fish is part of my diet though.