Discovering Finland is not just about exploring its lakes, northern lights or endless forests: it's also about savouring its history in every dish. Finnish cuisine combines ingredients from the Arctic, the forest and the lake, transforming the simple into something deeply memorable. If you're planning your trip, learning about the typical Finnish food It is a delightful way to connect with your essence.
1. Lohikeitto (salmon soup): the country's most iconic flavour
The Salmon soup It is a creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, carrots, dill and cream. It is perfect for warming up after an excursion or a day on the frozen lakes of the north. Its popularity makes it a must-try in cities such as Helsinki y Rovaniemi, where many traditional restaurants serve it accompanied by freshly baked rye bread.
2. Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pie): the classic Finnish breakfast
Originally from the eastern region of Karelia, the Karjalanpiirakka It is an oval-shaped rye dough pastry filled with rice or mashed potatoes. It is served with egg butter (munavoi), a simple touch that makes it irresistible. You can try it at local bakeries, especially in Ruka or Levi, where it is part of the traditional Finnish breakfast.
3. Poronkäristys (reindeer stew): Lapland's culinary gem
The Poronkäristys, or reindeer stew, is a symbol of the Lappish cuisine. Prepared with reindeer meat sautéed in butter and onions, it is served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam. Its intense flavour and tender texture make it a unique experience that you can enjoy in local restaurants in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland.
4. Ruisleipä (rye bread): the soul of the Finnish home
The Ruisleipä It is dark, dense and slightly sour bread made from rye flour. It is so essential that almost no Finnish household is without it. It accompanies soups, cheeses and cold meats, and is usually baked by hand. Eating it freshly baked is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Finland.
5. Hernekeitto (pea soup): Thursday tradition
The Hernekeitto It is a thick soup made from green peas and smoked pork. Traditionally, it is served on Thursdays in homes and public canteens. Its simplicity and smoky aroma have kept it alive for centuries as a symbol of Finnish home cooking. It is usually accompanied by rye bread and mustard.
6. Kalakukko (fish-filled bread): a traditional recipe from the interior
The Kalakukko comes from the Savonia region. It consists of slowly baked rye bread filled with fish (pike or perch) and pork. Its prolonged cooking seals in the flavours, resulting in a juicy interior. It is ideal for those looking for a rustic, nutritious dish that is representative of the Rural Finland.
7. Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie): a dessert from the northern forests
The Blueberry pie It is a wild blueberry pie, abundant in Finnish forests. It is served warm, with cream or vanilla ice cream. Its mild, natural flavour makes it the perfect ending to a full Nordic meal. It is usually available all year round in local cafés.
How to enjoy Finnish cuisine during your trip
Try the typical dishes where they originated: reindeer stew in Lapland or stuffed bread in Savonia.
Visit local markets like that of Helsinki o Rovaniemi, where you will find fresh products from the Arctic.
Book authentic dining experiences with Viada, combining local cuisine with excursions and cultural activities.
Accompany the dishes with traditional drinks., such as the glögi (mulled wine) or Finnish craft beer.
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What traditional dishes should I not miss in Finland?
Lohikeitto (salmon soup), Poronkäristys (reindeer stew) and Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie) are essential.
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Where can I try reindeer stew?
In traditional restaurants in Rovaniemi and Levi, where we also offer activities.
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Is food expensive in Finland?
In general, eating out is expensive, as in other European countries, but there are affordable options in markets and daily buffets.
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What are some typical desserts in Finland?
Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie) and Runebergintorttu (almond and jam tart) are the best known.