FOODS FROM FINLAND YOU NEED TO TRY

Kalakukko (fish pie)

Kalakukko originates from the Finnish region of Savonia. It is traditionally prepared with rye flour, seasoned with salt, and filled with fish, pork and bacon. When the bones of the fish soften, the meat and fish juice cook throughout the bread in the oven for hours to result in a moist filling.

Karjalanpiirakka (rice pies)

Karjalanpiirakka are a very popular pastry in Finland originally from the region of Karelia. The rye crust is traditionally filled with rice porridge and topped with egg butter. It is eaten in Finland for breakfast, as a snack, and even served at weddings.

Muikku (fried vendance)

This small freshwater fish is abundant in Finland. With it being so common, Finns have many ways of serving this delicious white fish. One of the favorite cooking methods is breading the fish and frying it in butter. These crispy little fish are a flavorful treat and since the bones are so small the entire fish can be eaten without worry.

Poronkaristys (sauteed reindeer)

Of course, we had to end with a reindeer dish. The steak or back of the reindeer is thinly sliced, fried in fat, spiced with salt and pepper, and cooked in water, cream, or beer until tender. This Finnish cuisine is then served with sugared lingonberries, mashed potatoes and cucumber pickles.