Discover the Flavors of Finland: 7 Classic Finnish Dishes You Need to Try

 

   Finnish cuisine is a delicious blend of traditional and modern flavors, and it is known for its  hearty and comforting dishes. Whether you are a foodie traveling to Finland or just looking to try  something new, these 7 classic Finnish dishes are a must-try.

   1- Karelian Pasties (Karjalanpiirakka) – These traditional Finnish pastries are  made with a thin, rye crust and filled with a mixture of rice porridge and butter. They are often  served with a side of egg butter, which is a spread made from boiled eggs and butter.

   2- Smoked fish (Savustettu kala) – Finland is known for its smoked fish, particularly  salmon and white fish, which are often served as an appetizer or a main course. The  fish is salted and smoked to give it a rich and flavorful taste, and it is usually served with a side  of boiled potatoes and vegetables.

   

   3- Reindeer (Poronkäristys) – Reindeer meat is a popular ingredient in Finnish  cuisine and is often served as a stew or casserole, typically with mashed potatoes or lingonberry  jam. The meat is lean and tender, and it is a great source of protein.

   4- Meatballs (Lihapullat) – Meatballs are a staple in Finnish cuisine, typically made with  a mixture of beef, pork, and onion, and served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy.  They are a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.

   5- Cloudberry (Lakka) – Cloudberries are a type of wild berry that grows in the Finnish  forests. They are often used to make jams, desserts and liqueurs. The berries have a unique taste,  with a hint of tartness and sweetness, and they are a great addition to pancakes, ice cream, or  cheesecake.

   6- Squeaky cheese (Juustoleipä) – Squeaky cheese is a traditional Finnish cheese that  is made from cow's milk and is eaten fresh. Its unique texture is caused by the high moisture  content, which makes it squeak when you bite into it. It is typically served with bread or crackers  and it's a great addition to any cheese plate.

   7- Finnish Bread (Rye bread, Ruisleipä) – Rye bread is a staple in Finnish cuisine.  It is a dense, hearty bread made from rye flour, and often served with butter, cheese or  smoked fish. It has a distinct and rich flavor that pairs well with almost anything.

   All these dishes are delicious, hearty and comforting, they are the perfect representation of  Finnish cuisine. If you ever have the opportunity to travel to Finland, make sure to try these  traditional dishes, and you will not be disappointed.