Finland, the land of a thousand lakes and enchanting forests, offers more than just breathtaking landscapes. Its cuisine, deeply rooted in nature and tradition, is a delightful exploration for any food enthusiast. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey to discover 10 iconic examples of Finland Food that you simply must try.
1. Karjalanpiirakka (Rice Pies)
Originating from the Karelia region, Karjalanpiirakka are incredibly popular pastries throughout Finland. These savory pies feature a thin, crispy rye crust embracing a creamy rice porridge filling. Often enjoyed with a generous spread of egg butter (munavoi), Karjalanpiirakka are versatile Finland food, perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even as part of a wedding buffet. Their comforting taste and satisfying texture make them a true staple of Finnish cuisine.
2. Ruisleipä (Rye Bread)
Rye bread might be familiar, but Finland’s Ruisleipä is in a league of its own. This is genuine 100% rye bread, crafted with unique Finnish yeasts that lend it a distinctly dark, dense, and slightly sour character. Ruisleipä is more than just bread; it’s a cornerstone of Finland food culture and a part of Finnish identity that stretches back millennia. Leavened rye breads are frequently dried into a thin, crisp form, ideal for open-faced sandwiches or enjoying simply with butter as a hearty snack.
3. Leipäjuusto (Bread Cheese)
Known affectionately as “Finnish squeaky cheese” in the US, Leipäjuusto is a unique fresh cheese with a mild flavor and distinctive texture. Traditionally made from cow’s beestings, the nutrient-rich first milk after calving, Leipäjuusto is often pan-fried or baked, resulting in a slightly browned surface and a warm, pliable interior. It’s a quintessential Finland food experience to enjoy Leipäjuusto alongside a cup of coffee or paired with the tart sweetness of cloudberry jam.
4. Kalakukko (Fish Pie)
Hailing from the Savonia region, Kalakukko is a hearty and flavorful fish pie that exemplifies rustic Finland food. This substantial pie is made with a rye flour crust, seasoned simply with salt, and generously filled with fish, pork, and bacon. Baked for hours, the fish bones soften, and the combined juices of the meat and fish permeate the rye bread casing, creating a moist and incredibly flavorful filling. Kalakukko is a testament to Finnish resourcefulness and culinary ingenuity.
5. Korvapuusti (Cinnamon Buns)
Korvapuusti, translating charmingly to “Slapped Ears,” are Finland’s delightful take on cinnamon rolls. These sweet pastries are a type of “Pulla,” a general term for Finnish sweet bread, and are an essential part of Finland food culture, particularly when enjoyed with coffee. The fluffy, aromatic dough is enriched with milk, fresh yeast, and a generous dose of ground cardamom, creating a comforting and irresistible treat.
6. Muikku (Fried Vendace)
Muikku, or vendace, are small freshwater fish abundant in Finland’s numerous lakes. Their plentiful nature has made them a staple in Finland food, with countless ways to prepare them. One of the most beloved methods is breading and frying the fish in butter until golden and crispy. These flavorful little fish are a true Finnish delicacy, and because their bones are so delicate, Muikku can be enjoyed whole, offering a satisfying and effortless eating experience.
7. Graavilohi (Cured Salmon)
Finns have a deep appreciation for salmon, and Finland boasts some of the purest and freshest fishing waters. Graavilohi is a classic Nordic dish made from raw salmon that is cured in a simple yet flavorful mixture of salt, sugar, and dill. Thinly sliced, this elegant Finland food is often served as a sophisticated appetizer, accompanied by a dill or mustard sauce, and presented on bread or alongside boiled potatoes. Graavilohi showcases the quality and natural flavors of Finnish ingredients.
8. Mustikkapiirakka (Blueberry Pie)
During the summer months, Finnish forests become a treasure trove of bilberries, the Nordic, more intensely flavored cousin of the blueberry. Mustikkapiirakka, or blueberry pie, is a quintessential Finland food dessert, celebrating these wild berries. While other berries can be used, Mustikkapiirakka, often made with a creamy yogurt filling and served with cold fresh milk, is a particularly cherished Finnish treat, embodying the simplicity and natural goodness of Finnish baking.
9. Salmiakki (Salty Liquorice)
Salmiakki is a polarizing yet iconic Finland food. While black licorice might be disliked in some parts of the world, in Finland, Salmiakki is a true fan favorite. This unique licorice is flavored with ammonium chloride, giving it a distinctive astringent, salty, and slightly bitter taste. Often enjoyed as a candy on its own, Salmiakki’s bold flavor is also used to enhance other Finland food and drinks, including ice cream, alcoholic beverages, and even savory meat dishes, demonstrating its versatile and adventurous nature.
10. Poronkäristys (Sautéed Reindeer)
No exploration of Finland food would be complete without a reindeer dish. Poronkäristys, or sautéed reindeer, is a traditional Lappish delicacy. Thinly sliced reindeer steak or back is fried in fat, seasoned with salt and pepper, and then cooked in water, cream, or beer until incredibly tender. This hearty and flavorful Finland food is traditionally served with the tartness of sugared lingonberries, creamy mashed potatoes, and refreshing cucumber pickles, creating a balanced and deeply satisfying meal that reflects the Arctic culinary heritage of Finland.
