Are you a foodie looking for your next food adventure? Look no further than Finland! This beautiful Nordic country may not be known for its cuisine, but it has a lot to offer to the culinary world. Finnish cuisine provides an exquisite blend of flavours, and whether you’ve got a sweet tooth or prefer savoury dishes, Finland has something to offer you. In this blog, we’ll share all the exciting and unique Finnish foods you must try on your foodie adventure in Finland!
Karjalanpiirakka
Let’s start with a classic Finnish dish – Karjalanpiirakka, known as Karelian pies. These small, oval-shaped pastries are made with thin rye crust filled with rice or mashed potatoes. These pies are the perfect snack to have on the go when exploring Helsinki or other Finnish cities. You can find them in most bakeries and markets, and they make for a delicious, hearty treat.
Poronkäristys
Next up on the list is Poronkäristys, which translates to sautéed reindeer. This traditional dish comes from Lapland and is a must-try for anyone visiting the region. The dish consists of sliced reindeer meat sautéed in butter and served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and pickles. The meat is tender and flavorful, and the lingonberry sauce adds a sweet tanginess to the dish. This dish is found in most traditional Finnish restaurants, especially in Lapland.
Pulla
If you have a sweet tooth, Finnish pulla will surely win your heart. Pulla is a sweet cardamom-spiced bread served with coffee or tea and is a staple in Finnish households. The bread is soft and fluffy, and the cardamom flavour perfectly balances sweetness and spice. Some Finns enjoy their pulla with butter and cheese, while others prefer jam or cloudberry cream. You can find this delicacy in most bakeries and cafes in Finland.
Lohikeitto
Another dish that you cannot leave Finland without trying is Lohikeitto, also known as Finnish salmon soup. This soup is a must-try for all seafood lovers and a staple in Finnish cuisine. The soup consists of salmon, potatoes, cream, and dill, and it’s hearty enough to serve as a meal. The combination of cream and dill gives the soup a unique flavour you won’t find anywhere else.
Leipäjuusto
Last but not least is Leipäjuusto, a traditional Finnish cheese made from cow’s milk. The cheese has a sweet, caramelized flavour and is often served with a dollop of cloudberry jam. Leipäjuusto is often served warm and grilled, giving it a crispy outer layer and a gooey centre. This unique cheese is a must-try for anyone visiting Finland, and you can find it in most traditional Finnish restaurants and markets.
In conclusion, Finnish cuisine perfectly blends traditional and modern flavours with something to offer for all kinds of foodies. Whether you’re exploring Finland’s bustling cities or peaceful countryside, there’s always something delicious to eat. By trying these classic Finnish dishes, you’ll fill your tummy and have a unique cultural experience. Finland may not be top of mind regarding food destinations, but it’s worth exploring for its unique and delectable culinary delights. So what are you waiting for? Add Finland to your foodie adventure list today!
