Typical Finnish Cuisine

Traditional Finnish cuisine is known for its simplicity, freshness, and locally sourced ingredients. Here are some examples of dishes you can try:

1. Salmon soup (Lohikeitto)

Salmon soup is a classic Finnish dish made with fresh salmon, potatoes, onions, dill, and cream. It is a hearty and comforting soup that showcases the country's rich seafood offerings. You can try it at restaurants specializing in Finnish cuisine or seafood establishments.

2. Karelian pasties (Karjalanpiirakat)

Karelian pasties are a popular Finnish pastry consisting of a thin rye crust filled with a rice or potato mixture. They are typically served as a snack or appetizer. You can find these delicious pasties at local bakeries or in some Finnish food markets.

3. Reindeer stew (Poronkäristys)

Reindeer stew is a traditional Finnish dish often enjoyed during the winter months. It is made by sautéing thin strips of reindeer meat in butter and serving it with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and pickles. Various restaurants specializing in Finnish or Lapland cuisine serve reindeer stew.

4. Finnish pancakes (Pannukakku)

Finnish pancakes are a breakfast treat made from a batter of eggs, milk, flour, and a touch of sugar. They are typically baked in the oven until they rise and become golden brown. These fluffy pancakes are often enjoyed with lingonberry jam or maple syrup. Many cafés and breakfast places in Finland serve them.

5. Sautéed mushrooms (Herkkusienet)

Mushrooms are abundant in Finland's forests, making sautéed mushrooms a common dish in Finnish cuisine. They are typically cooked with butter, onions, and seasoned with salt and pepper. Sautéed mushrooms can be served as a side dish or as a topping for meat dishes. Look for restaurants that incorporate locally foraged ingredients in their menus.

Where to Try Finnish Cuisine

If you're in Finland, you can try traditional Finnish cuisine at the following places:

1. Local Restaurants

Various restaurants throughout Finland offer traditional Finnish dishes. Look for restaurants that focus on locally sourced ingredients or those that advertise Finnish cuisine specifically.

2. Food Markets

Finnish food markets, such as Hakaniemi Market Hall in Helsinki or Market Square (Kauppatori) in Turku, often have food stalls where you can try authentic Finnish dishes and snacks.

3. Cafés and Bakeries

Many cafés and bakeries in Finland serve traditional Finnish pastries like cinnamon buns (korvapuusti) or Karelian pasties. They are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.

4. Local Festivals and Events

Attending local festivals and events in Finland can provide an opportunity to try Finnish cuisine. There are often food stalls or food trucks serving traditional dishes during these events.