Finland, a beautiful Scandinavian country known for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine lakes, also boasts a rich culinary heritage. Finnish cuisine is a delightful combination of traditional Nordic flavors and contemporary influences, resulting in a unique culinary experience. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most delicious dishes that you must try when visiting Finland.
One of the most iconic Finnish dishes is Karelian pasties. These pastries are made from a rye crust and filled with a mixture of rice and butter. They are often served with a variety of toppings, such as egg butter, smoked salmon, or pickled herring. The combination of the crispy crust and creamy filling makes Karelian pasties a true delight for your taste buds.
Finland is also known for its abundant seafood, especially salmon. Salmon soup, or lohikeitto, is a popular traditional Finnish dish. It is made from fresh salmon, potatoes, onions, and dill, cooked in a creamy broth. The soup is often served with a side of rye bread, and the flavors of the fish and dill complement each other perfectly.
[image: Karjalanpiirakka]
Karjalanpiirakka, another Finnish specialty, is a traditional pastry from the region of Karelia. It consists of a thin rye crust filled with a mixture of rice pudding or mashed potatoes. The pastries are then baked until crispy and golden. Karjalanpiirakka is a delicious snack that can be enjoyed on its own or with various toppings, such as egg butter or cheese.
For a taste of true Finnish wilderness, try reindeer stew, or poronkäristys. Reindeer meat is a delicacy in Finland and is often used in traditional dishes. The meat is slow-cooked with onions and spices, resulting in a rich and tender stew. Reindeer stew is commonly served with mashed potatoes or lingonberry sauce, adding a touch of sweetness to the savory dish.
No Finnish meal is complete without rye bread. Ruisleipä, or Finnish rye bread, is a staple in the Finnish diet. It is made from dark rye flour, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. Rye bread can be enjoyed on its own, topped with butter or cheese, or used as a base for open-faced sandwiches known as voileipä.
Finally, no exploration of Finnish cuisine would be complete without mentioning blueberry pie, or mustikkapiirakka. Finland is known for its abundant forests, which are filled with wild berries, including blueberries. Blueberry pie is a popular dessert in Finland, featuring a buttery crust filled with sweet and juicy blueberries. It is often served with whipped cream or vanilla sauce.