As the temperatures drop and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of soup or a plate of hearty, satisfying food. Finland, known for its love of simplicity, natural ingredients, and cozy atmospheres, has a rich tradition of delicious and filling dishes that are perfect for chilly winter nights. From classic comfort foods to unique regional specialties, Finnish cuisine is all about embracing the beauty of everyday ingredients and turning them into something truly special.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 of Finland’s most beloved recipes, each one designed to warm your heart and your belly on even the coldest of nights. Whether you’re a foodie looking for new inspiration or simply someone who loves trying new dishes, these hearty Finnish recipes are sure to become fast favorites in your household.
Finnish salmon soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening, Finnish salmon soup is a classic recipe that showcases the rich flavors of fresh salmon. This comforting dish is also incredibly easy to make, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add fish stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and cooked salmon; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Karelian pasties
Discover the traditional flavors of Karelia with these savory pasties filled with beef and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 250g ground beef
– 100g mushrooms (button or cremini), chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion, mushrooms, garlic, and tomato paste to the pan. Cook until the mixture is soft and fragrant.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Place spoonfuls of the beef-mushroom mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rye bread with smoked salmon
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this simple yet elegant combination of rye bread and smoked salmon. The earthy flavors of the rye pair perfectly with the rich, smoky taste of the salmon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 6 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
– Lemon wedges and capers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add lukewarm water and melted butter; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Slice the rye bread and serve with smoked salmon, lemon wedges, and capers (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lohikeitto (creamy salmon soup)
This traditional Finnish soup is a comforting and flavorful blend of salmon, potatoes, and vegetables. Lohikeitto is perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a starter for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the potatoes, salmon fillet, salt, and pepper. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and dried dill weed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Karjalanpiirakka (rice-filled pastries)
Karjalanpiirakka is a beloved Finnish pastry filled with rice and various meats or vegetables, wrapped in rye flour dough. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, and its hearty flavor is sure to warm the hearts of those who taste it.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rye flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients (choose one):
+ 1/2 cup cooked rice
+ 1/2 cup ground beef or pork, browned with onion and spices
+ 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic
– Water for dough
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix flour, rye flour, and salt in a bowl.
3. Add oil and gradually add water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
4. Divide dough into small portions and roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place chosen filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash or water, if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie)
Mustikkapiirakka (Blueberry Pie) – A classic Finnish dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the crust mixture and stir until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Place the blueberries in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
8. Fold the dough up over the blueberries, pressing edges to seal.
9. Brush the top with milk and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hernekeitto (pea soup with ham)
This traditional Finnish soup, Hernekeitto, is a comforting and flavorful treat that warms the soul. With its rich ham flavor and tender peas, it’s no wonder this dish has been a staple in Finnish cuisine for generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound split peas (green or yellow)
– 2 cups water
– 6 ounces diced cooked ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the peas again, then transfer them to a large pot with the remaining 2 cups of water.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced ham, and caraway seeds to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Lihapullat (Finnish meatballs)
Savor the flavors of Finland with this classic recipe for Lihapullat, also known as Finnish meatballs. These tender and savory bites are a staple in many Scandinavian households.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add milk and mix until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. Use your hands to shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
6. Dot the top of each meatball with butter.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kalakukko (fish-filled rye pastry)
Kalakukko is a traditional Finnish fish-filled rye pastry that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a snack on-the-go. This recipe brings together the simplicity of rye dough and the richness of fish, making it a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 100g salmon fillet (or other fish), cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten
– Butter or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rye flour, salt, and caraway seeds.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two portions. Roll out one portion into a thin sheet.
5. Brush the dough with beaten egg. Place fish pieces on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around.
6. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush top with butter or oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Perunamuusi (creamy mashed potatoes)
A classic Finnish comfort food, Perunamuusi is a rich and satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or vegetables. This simple recipe yields a creamy and fluffy mashed potato experience.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with the heavy cream and butter.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kaalikääryleet (cabbage rolls)
Kaalikääryleet, a beloved Finnish dish, is a hearty and flavorful meal made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground beef and rice. This recipe brings together the comforting warmth of cabbage rolls with the simplicity of everyday cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 500g ground beef
– 100g cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
2. In a separate pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked rice, chopped onion, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Mix well.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/2 cup of the beef mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. Place the rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish. Dot the top with butter.
7. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pannukakku (Finnish oven pancake)
A traditional Finnish treat, Pannukakku is a delicious and easy-to-make oven pancake perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. This recipe yields a light and airy pancake with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add sugar and whisk until dissolved.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Pour in melted butter and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan or a regular oven-safe skillet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pancake is puffed, golden brown, and slightly firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leipäjuusto (Finnish squeaky cheese with cloudberry jam)
Leipäjuusto is a traditional Finnish cheese known for its unique squeaky texture when fresh. Paired with sweet and tangy cloudberry jam, this combination is a beloved treat in Finland.
Ingredients:
– 250g Leipäjuusto cheese
– 1/4 cup Cloudberry jam
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the Leipäjuusto into small cubes.
2. Place the cheese cubes on a plate or serving board.
3. Spoon the cloudberry jam over the cheese, allowing it to drizzle and pool around the cubes.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Lörtsy (savory or sweet pastries)
Discover the delightful tradition of Estonian Lörtsy pastries! With this simple recipe, you can enjoy these flaky, buttery treats filled with either savory or sweet fillings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling of your choice (e.g., ground meat and onion for savory, apple or berry filling for sweet)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough comes together in a ball.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Place your chosen filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold dough over filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Riisipuuro (rice pudding with cinnamon sugar)
A classic Finnish dessert, Riisipuuro is a comforting and sweet treat that’s easy to make. This traditional recipe is flavored with cinnamon and topped with a crunchy sugar topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar (see note)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter and ground cinnamon.
4. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Sprinkle the top with cinnamon sugar (see note).
6. Let cool to room temperature before serving.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls)
A classic Finnish treat, Korvapuusti is a delicious and sweet pastry filled with the warmth of cinnamon. This recipe yields soft, gooey, and utterly delightful rolls that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add melted butter, lukewarm milk, egg, and yeast mixture; mix until smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle evenly over the dough.
5. Roll up the dough tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips: Let the rolls cool before serving. If desired, dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer with lingonberries)
Poronkäristys, a traditional Finnish dish, is a hearty and flavorful combination of sautéed reindeer meat, lingonberries, and onions. This recipe is a perfect representation of Scandinavian cuisine, showcasing the bold flavors of game meat paired with the sweetness of lingonberries.
Ingredients:
– 500g reindeer meat (or beef), sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups lingonberries, fresh or frozen
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced reindeer meat and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in the lingonberries and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Graavilohi (cured salmon with dill)
Graavilohi is a classic Finnish appetizer that combines the richness of cured salmon with the brightness of fresh dill. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as a starter for a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet (preferably wild-caught)
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh dill leaves, chopped
– Black peppercorns, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the salmon fillet into a single layer on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray.
2. Mix the kosher salt, sugar, vinegar, and water in a bowl until dissolved.
3. Pour the curing mixture evenly over the salmon, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill leaves and black peppercorns on top.
5. Refrigerate for 3-5 days, or until the salmon reaches your desired level of cure.
6. Rinse off the cure under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
7. Slice thinly and serve.
Cooking Time: None, as it’s a cured dish!
Lanttulaatikko (rutabaga casserole)
Lanttulaatikko (Rutabaga Casserole) Recipe
A hearty and comforting Finnish-inspired dish, Lanttulaatikko is perfect for a cold winter’s night. This rutabaga casserole combines the natural sweetness of rutabagas with the savory flavors of bacon and cream.
Ingredients:
- 2 large rutabagas, peeled and thinly sliced
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened.
- Add the sliced rutabagas to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes or until tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cooked bacon until well combined.
- Transfer the rutabaga mixture to a baking dish and pour the cream-bacon mixture over the top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Piparkakut (Finnish gingerbread cookies)
In Finland, piparkakut are a beloved holiday treat, with their warm spices and sweet molasses flavor. These traditional cookies are perfect for dunking in coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark molasses
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix molasses, brown sugar, egg, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these hearty Finnish recipes perfect for chilly nights. From comforting soups like Lohikeitto (creamy salmon soup) and Hernekeitto (pea soup with ham), to savory pastries like Karelian pasties and Kalakukko (fish-filled rye pastry), there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet treats like Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie) and Korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls), or try traditional dishes like Lihapullat (Finnish meatballs) and Pannukakku (Finnish oven pancake). These recipes will transport you to the warmth of Finland’s snowy landscapes.
