30 Finnish Food and Dishes You Should Try

To start, I hope you’re not reading this hungry because what you’re about to learn about traditional Finnish food is going to make your stomach growl.

What is traditional Finnish food? In a nutshell, this Nordic cuisine consists of different staples which locals enjoy on a daily and this includes rye bread, different types of porridge eaten for breakfast, sweet bread pastries such as pulla and cinnamon rolls, sweet pies and pastries, cured meat, and fishes, smoked meat and fishes, potatoes cooked in different ways, stewed meats, and cream-based sauces.

But let’s face the facts first, Finland food has had a bad rep for being bland amongst tourists, and that’s because they don’t know where to go, and they often go to overpriced tourist traps that are located around the tourist areas of the cities.

I can’t blame them, I’ve been a tourist in a lot of places I’ve visited, and it is unavoidable, especially with lack of research. This is the main reason why I compiled this list so that I can justify traditional Finnish food to anyone who wants to visit Finland.

I’ve been living in Finland for over a decade now, and I went to cooking school here and had the opportunity to learn about what is the real traditional Finnish food; therefore, I can attest to the fact that it is not as bland as what people claim it to be.

Traditional foods in Finland go according to the season: winter, spring, summer, and autumn and as a chef who trained mostly in Nordic kitchens specializing in Finnish cuisine, I’m telling you now – do some research of what is in season and choose your dishes according to that.

That said, a lot of really good Finnish restaurants (especially the ones located in big cities such as Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku) all use seasonal produce and create amazing dishes out of them.

If you do visit Helsinki, there are numerous restaurants in that city known for specific Finnish dishes which you can try, and I’m telling you now, you won’t be disappointed!

Now, what is Finnish food, really?

Well, truthfully, it is very simple. Like, salt and pepper simple. Nothing fancy, just basic raw ingredients cooked with the basics of the basics. But, isn’t that what makes something really good? Seasonal, fresh, and simple.

Clean.

They don’t use a lot of spices; therefore, for every bite you take, you’ll taste the flavors of the ingredients as they are and not masked behind different aromas, spices, and whatnot. Again, the flavor is clean.

If the dish says it is a creamy salmon soup with potatoes and root vegetables, that is exactly what you will get. Salmon in broth, cream, onion, potatoes, and root vegetables with a bit of salt and white pepper. Some grannies might put allspice and bay leaf, but those are optional and very personal.

Alright, now that I’ve explained to you what Finland food is. Please read along and see what real Finnish cuisine is!

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Top 30 BEST Traditional Finnish Food You Should Try

Ruisleipä (Rye bread)

Rye bread is the most basic breakfast sandwich you can get, it is basically two slices of Finnish rye bread, a slice of ham, and a slice of cheese on each side – that’s how most people in Finland eat this. However, if you’re feeling fancy, you can also eat it with a slice of tomato, a salad leaf, and a slice of cucumber.

If you’re staying in one of the many awesome luxury hotels in Helsinki, then you can almost make sure they have rye bread in their breakfast buffet. If not, you can buy rye bread, cheese, and ham from the local grocery store (they’re decent, don’t worry) or a ready-made ham and cheese rye bread sandwich.

A lot of cafes have them too, but they are like €5 a sandwich, which is crazy expensive for something simple – trust me, I wouldn’t pay for it.

Are you planning to visit Helsinki soon? We recommend going on a walking tour around the city! You could ask your local guide, where is the best place to find the best breakfast in Helsinki!

Riispuuro (Rice porridge)

Riisipuuro is your basic rice porridge made with a mixture of water, full-fat milk, and rice. If you’re feeling a bit naughty, you can add a slab of butter and sugar on top of it, and if you’re feeling a bit Christmas-y – add cinnamon! I prefer it with a slab of butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Yes, I like my porridge naughty sometimes.

It is heavy and delicious – or at least I think. Plus, like what I said, you need to fuel up for a day of walking, and rice porridge is a common breakfast food that a lot of Finns love.

I do think though that since people are busier nowadays, they don’t make rice porridge at home anymore. However, they have a tradition at Christmas where everyone gathers around to eat rice porridge for breakfast.

I’ve mentioned that the locals are rather busier these days, right? Yes, well, because of that, big food chains started producing rice porridge ready for consumption. Although rice porridge on its own is easy to make and delicious when fresh, then again, it is time-consuming – nobody has time for that nowadays, unfortunately.

Great luck to you, though, you can buy ready-made ones (they’re not that bad) from local grocery shops or, again, if you’re staying in a hotel that serves breakfast, they might have it there too.

If you want to experience the best breakfast in Helsinki, you can book your accommodation at Hotel Kämp or Hotel Lilla Roberts for their awesome breakfast spreads.

Hernekeitto (Pea soup)

Ah, hernekeitto! Basically, it is pea soup made from either fresh peas if it is summer and dried peas during winter. It is typically cooked with smoked pork shanks, onions, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Simple, right? Well, cooking it is simple, but you have to always remember to soak the dried peas first in water overnight; otherwise, cooking it would be a major pain in the ass – tried and tested. Soak it in water.

Finnish pea soup is an ultimate favorite amongst Finns, especially the older people. Most young people hate this, but personally, I think Finnish pea soup is splendid, especially if there’s smoked ham!

This soup is typically served every Thursday in Finnish restaurants, and alongside it, you’ll also get a slice of oven-baked pancake with jam (and sometimes whipped cream). Oh, and, of course, rye crackers or rye bread with a thick layer of butter – with this soup is just wow.

You can get Finnish pea soup from typical Finnish restaurants, but it might be tough to find it as this dish is seasonal (usually popular during winter). However, from time to time, lunch restaurants like Moko have it on their menu.

Otherwise, if you want to taste Finnish pea soup but don’t want to spend too much money on it, again, they have it available in the canned goods section in all grocery shops, which aren’t the best, but they are not so bad either.

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Uunipannukakku (Oven pancakes)

Unnipannukakku or oven pancakes is a popular Finnish dessert and unlike popular American pancake and French crepes both of which are pan cooked, Finnish pancake is cooked in the oven! It is also a little bit thicker, a bit denser, and the texture is soft with just the right amount of sweetness. This is often eaten with whipped cream, strawberry jam, and as a dessert served traditionally every Thursday along side Finnish pea soup.

Lohikeitto (Salmon soup)

The basics out of all the basics. Finnish salmon soup is an ultimate favorite regardless of the season! It is a timeless classic made with salmon, potatoes, carrots, onions, and cream or full-fat milk and typically season with allspice and dill. Simple right?

This is one of my favorite Finnish food since arriving in Finland. Also, this is eaten with rye bread with a slab of butter. Plus, Finland is known for its salmon culture influenced by Scandinavia.

Whenever I have guests from abroad visiting me here in Finland, I always make sure to bring them to a restaurant that sells this, and all of them loved this creamy deliciousness. So I recommend you should not miss this either!

Also, You’re in luck because there’s a lot of restaurants in Helsinki that have this on their menu! Unfortunately, I am not sure which one serves it best. I know that traditional Finnish restaurants such as Ravintola KuuKuu, Ravintola Lappi, and Restaurant Story have traditional salmon soup in their lunch or dinner menus.

I would say you can get this from grocery shops as well, but man, unless you can’t pay 10-15€ for a bowl of nice salmon soup from the restaurants I mentioned then, please make it at home instead because the ones you get from shops are not good. You can try my recipe from my food website, The Kitchen Abroad’s simple but delicious Salmon Soup!

If you’re planning your trip to Helsinki, we recommend staying at Hotel Fabian as it is right smack in the center of the city and you’ll get easy access to a lot of tourist areas and as well amazing Finnish restaurants.

Siskonmakkarakeitto (Sausage Soup)

Siskonmakkara is a raw sausage, and if I would translate siskonmakkarakeitto to English, it means, “Sister’s sausage soup” – which is an odd name and I am not sure what is the history behind why they called that sausage type like so.

Siskonmakkarakeitto is one of those unusual dishes you’ll encounter while in Finland, and I think you should give it a try. The sausage used in this specific soup is specially made just for this specific soup – nothing else, or at least not that I know of.

The sausage is raw, and to get those little balls of sausages, and you’ll have to sort of… hmm, squeeze them out from the sausage casing, you get me? I really can’t explain it well, but this video can certainly tell you exactly what I mean(It is in Finnish though, but I just want you to see the part when they squeeze them balls out!)

Unfortunately, there aren’t many restaurants that sell this as most Finnish people cook this regularly at home since it is easy to make it. However, if you stumble upon one restaurant that sells this, go for it without a doubt.

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Lihapullat muusilla ja puolukkahillolla (Meatballs with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam)

Ah, Scandinavian meatballs! No pun intended, I swear. You all know IKEA, right? Well, the meatballs you get from there are traditionally obviously from Sweden. But! Finland also has a traditional Finnish meatball, which every single child in this country loves. I love it too, and it is damn good. It is quite similar to the Swedish version: Meatballs, brown sauce, mashed potato, and lingonberry jam – the bomb.

When I was working in this one famous traditional Finnish restaurant here in Helsinki, their meatballs were the most popular dish on the whole menu. Everyone’s coming to that restaurant to have that dish more than anything else and guess from where are their customers?

Finland! Yes, Finns love meatballs! They were getting a lot of foreign diners too since the restaurant was a well-known traditional Finnish restaurant. I think it is worth trying this dish not only because it is good and it is usually rather cheap and as well as heavy and filling. Your €€€ will be all worth it!

Again, you’re in luck because you’ll find this dish pretty much everywhere in Helsinki or any other Finnish restaurant in the whole country. This is a famous dish and trusts me, not every restaurant serves it good! You’re in even more luck, though, because I know where you can get the best meatballs in Helsinki, and that is Ravintola Tori have the most raved meatballs in town.

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Makaronilaatikko (Baked macaroni with minced meat)

This Finnish baked macaroni with minced meat could easily be compared to the American mac and cheese – only this dish doesn’t have cheese, but instead, it has minced meat and full-fat milk. I think every child in this country had this every other day or at least once a week, and every single University student possibly has this every single day – three times a day.

Why you may ask? Well, makaronilaatikko is exceptionally easy and cheap to make! Plus, almost everyone in Finland ate/eat this dish. I don’t necessarily suggest you eat this if you’re in Finland, but it is up to you if you wish, I think this dish is nothing special but popular amongst broke students.

It is comfort food for locals, and it is cheap! If you’re on a budget, this is your go-to meal if you’re in Finland – or anywhere in the world!

This dish is not too fancy for it to be included in a restaurant’s menu. However, if you’re lucky and stumble upon any lunch restaurants that have this on their menu, I’d still stay rather make it at home and try something else. I like this dish because if I’m busy and broke, then I think this dish is awesome.

Do you want your trip to be a little bit more personal? Perhaps, you want to cook at home? Why not stay in an apartment hotel so you can test out local produce and make a dish of your own – Aallonkoti Apartment Hotels.

Karjalanpaisti (Meat Stew)

Karjalanpaisti or meat stew is one of the simplest comfort food you can have in your life! It is cooked in a special pot quite the same as a crockpot only you can cook it in the oven; it is usually cooked for several hours or even overnight so you can only imagine how soft the meat can be – it melts in your mouth.

This meat stew is one of those meals that would warm up your heart and soul! If you come to Finland during winter, I’m sure you’ll love this stew after touring outside in the cold.

It is not common for restaurants to have this dish on their menu because it is so time-consuming to make it. However, this can easily be done at home if you want to make it! You can easily cook this dish in the comforts of your home by using a crockpot or a pressure cooker. Also, karjalainpaisti is best served with mashed potatoes!

If you’re staying in Helsinki, you must not forget to visit Porvoo, which is a city not far from the capital itself. There are few traditional Finnish restaurants in that city that may have karjalanpaisti on their menu so keep an eye on that!

They do have a lot of day tours you can partake in if you want to visit this lovely small town by the coast! Helsinki to Porvoo day tours is what we recommend.

Pyttipannu (Pan-fried potatoes with sausages)

Pyttipannu is a dish made of leftover dishes that you put together from yesterday’s dinner. It is a good way to get rid of old food! Pyttipannu is typically made with old potatoes, onion, and sausages and topped with a fried egg. However, you could always put whatever leftover food you have and fry them in a pan and serve it with ketchup and mustard – done.

I find this dish comfort food. If I made something with potatoes from the day before, I usually just fry them in butter with onions the next day, and that’s pyttipannu. If you’re a foreigner, you might find this dish odd, but I dare you to try it, I think it is awesome. Come on; it is fried potatoes! Who doesn’t like fried potatoes – in butter?

From regular shops, you can find this in the frozen section, and all you have to do is, well, fry them in a pan. Or, if you’re keen, you can fry old potatoes with onions and sausages and voila, pyttipannu. Again, this dish is something restaurants don’t serve, but there’s a possibility you’ll find this randomly from some restaurants.

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Kaalikääryleet (Stuffed cabbage)

Kaalikääryleet is stuffed cabbage, the best translation you can get. This dish is done by blanching the cabbage leaf, filling it with minced meat and cooked rice, roll it and then cook it in the oven and serve with mashed potatoes. Some people eat it with lingonberry jam, because why not.

I am not so sure if this is traditional Finnish as I’ve eaten stuffed cabbage from other countries in Europe, notably in the Balkan and Baltic areas. But, if you’re interested in this sort of dish, I recommend trying this dish here in Finland. It is still somewhat different than I’ve eaten from other countries!

Finnish grocery stores are good places to find traditional Finnish food at a cheaper price. It is best to make this fresh or eat this from restaurants. But then again, it is either a Finnish grandma or ordering this from a restaurant would be your only choice – the latter might be tough as, again, most restaurants don’t serve this dish.

Here’s another apartment hotel you can stay at in Helsinki: Uudenmankatu Apartments.

Nakkikastike (Hot dogs in Sauce)

If you ask a Finn what dish reminds them of childhood, there is a big chance they’ll say nakkikastike which is a very basic dish that consists of Finnish sausages, cream, and a bit of tomato paste.

I’ve made this a few times for my sister’s children and my partner and even wrote a recipe for it as it seems like a mystery for a lot of people and there’s a chunk of them who actually tried this out of curiosity.

They liked it and as most Finns say, ei siitä vikaa (it’s okay, nothing is wrong with it).

I honestly don’t know why but if you’re curious enough, why not? It is quite an easy food to eat and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with it. I think that is why a lot of kids like it and a lot of parents cook it at home – it is an easy dish that is ready in less than 20 minutes which the little humans will devour in 5.

Most shops sell this ready-made and all you have to do is heat it up and voila. Some old-school Finnish restaurants also sell this from time to time and it surprisingly goes fast. I suggest you just simply get this from the shop as it is less hassle and it honestly tastes alright.

Paistettu muikku (Fried vendace)

Paistettu muikku or fried vendace is a typical summer dish where you cover the vendace with a dry mixture of rye and regular flour; then, you fry the fish in butter or ghee until golden and crispy. This dish is usually served with aioli and a slice of lemon on the side.

If you come to Finland during the summer season, you’ll find fried vendace in summer food markets near the ports or towns. You’ll see how popular this dish is amongst foreigners and locals alike. I make it a goal to eat fried vendace at least three times a year during summertime; it is a crispy treat you’re looking forward to having since it is only available at a certain time of the year!

You can get fried vendace in food markets near the ports or market squares! Some shops have this as well in packaging but don’t buy those, they are not as fresh. Also, in market halls, you’ll find some small stalls that sell fried vendace as well!

Lihapiirakka (Meat pie)

Oh, lihapiirakka or meat pie! One of my after-party favorites! The Finnish meat pie is one of the bombs you can have when you visit; it is greasy, salty, and delicious. The dough is quite similar to doughnut dough, and it is filled with minced meat and cooked rice – then it is deep-fried in greasy oil to goodness.

If you’re up for some street food, this is the one you’ll get from the streets of Finland. Only they don’t have street vendors, but instead, they have small kiosks where you can buy these bad boys. You can have them either filled with more goodness or plain as it is, your choice – I suggest trying both.

You can buy meat pies from street kiosks. I highly suggest getting them bad boys from kiosks as they are usually naughtier than the ones you get from shops. Remember, the greasier, the better. If you want it, you can buy this from the ready-made fridge section in any grocery store, just warm them up in the microwave and eat it with ketchup.

Mureke ja Muusi (Meatloaf and mash)

This traditional Finnish food is a staple in many households across the country. It’s essentially Finnish meatloaf, both hearty and comforting.

The recipe varies from family to family, but the most common iteration includes a mixture of ground pork and beef, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, chopped onions, and a medley of spices. Some cooks even add a boiled egg in the middle for an extra surprise!

Unlike its American counterpart which is often slathered with tomato-based sauce or gravy, Mureke is typically served with brown sauce made from the pan drippings for an authentic flavor boost. The process of making Mureke is rather straightforward: mix all ingredients together (except the egg if you’re adding it), form into a loaf in a baking dish or on an oven tray lined with parchment paper, make space in the middle for your boiled egg if using one, cover it up with more meatloaf mix and pop it into an oven heated to 175 degrees Celsius (or about 350 degrees Fahrenheit).

Leave it be for about an hour or until well-cooked. Accompaniments often include creamy mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam; the sweet-tart flavor of lingonberries perfectly balancing out the rich and savory taste of the meat.

While relatively simple to prepare at home, don’t be too surprised if you find different versions served at local eateries – some might have certain twists like adding carrots or even liver into their mix! Regardless of these deviations from tradition though, one bite into this juicy meatloaf will make you understand why Mureke holds such a treasured spot within Finnish cuisine.

Jauhelihakeitto (Minced meat soup)

This hearty dish has been warming up the Finnish landscape for centuries and is as much a part of their culture as a sauna. A traditional Finnish food, it is basically a ground meat soup, and I can sense your intrigue already skyrocketing.

The beauty of Jauhelihakeitto is its simplicity. The primary ingredients are ground meat – typically beef or pork – along with potatoes, onions, carrots and an assortment of other root vegetables that the Nordic climate generously offers.

It’s all simmered together in a rich broth until every ingredient has had a chance to mingle and infuse the soup with their distinct flavours. But what really sets this dish apart is its versatility.

While there are standard ingredients that go into Jauhelihakeitto, Finns love adding their own personal twist to it. Some might add barley or rice for additional texture while others might throw in some fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavour.

It’s this adaptability that makes Jauhelihakeitto not just food but also a reflection of Finland’s diverse regions and families. And let’s not forget about the communal aspect of this dish.

In Finland, having Jauhelihakeitto often means gathering around the table with friends or family – feeding not just bodies but also relationships. Whether you’re enjoying it during Finland’s stark winters when temperatures drop below freezing or savoring it in summer amidst the country’s enchanting midnight sun, this soup exemplifies comfort food at its best.

So next time you’re craving something warm and hearty yet simple to prepare; consider giving Jauhelihakeitto a try! You might find yourself falling in love with this traditional Finnish food just like countless others before you.

Pinaattikeitto (Spinach Soup)

If you’re interested in trying out something unique, you should try Finnish spinach soup! If you’re in Finland, you can get this from stores easily. This concoction is made out of frozen spinach and milk cooked together and thickened a bit with potato starch and is traditionally served with hard-boiled egg!

Nakkikeitto (Sausage soup)

Another easy Finnish food to make is nakkikeitto or sausage soup and you’ll meet a lot of Finns who make this regularly at home. It is cheap, easy, and delicious! You can also get this easily from any Finnish stores but it wont be as good as home made.

Voileipäkakku (Sandwich Cake)

You won’t get to see much voileipäkakku being sold in Finland as this is more like a festive dish served during birthdays, name giving ceremonies, and graduation. However, it is quite easy to make it at home and regardless how weird it sounds like, this is actually really delicious! And no, this is not a sweet cake but rather a savory one and is usually filled with ham or smoked salmon.

Lihapasteja (Meat pies)

Meat filled pasties are everyone’s favorite snack which you can get for cheap! You can easily get this from grocery store’s freshly baked section and they are anywhere between €0.2-€1.00! Very cheap and delicious. The pastries are often filled with meat mixed with a bit of cooked rice and baked till crispy.

21. Lasimestarin silli (Marinated Herring)

Marinated herring is one of those winter food which you prepare during summertime. Lasimestarin silli or marinated herring is a kind of preserved food that you typically store for the upcoming winter.

Traditionally made with herring caught from the summer, you make a concoction out of vinegar, sugar, and some spices, and you store it in jars and keep it marinating or preserving till the winter season. Marinated herring is also a traditional Christmas food for some families here in Finland.

If you’re adventurous enough, I think you will like this odd dish. During springtime, Finns usually eat marinated herring with new potatoes, the perfect combination of old and new. I like marinated herring, and as we speak, I have a jar in my cupboard ready for next year as I wait for the new potatoes!

You don’t have enough time to cure your herring if you’re only visiting Finland for a short while, but you’re in luck because in shops you can easily buy a jar of marinated herring for few euros! Or you can go to market halls and try them from there.

22. Korvapuusti (Cinnamon rolls)

Korvapuusti is a sweet pastry with cinnamon, butter, and sugar filling and baked to perfection! It is quite similar to the American cinnamon roll, but not quite, korvapuusti is simpler and in my preference, better.

Finnish cinnamon rolls are easy to make and so lovely to smell while baking them, plus it is a delicious snack with coffee! You’ll see a lot of Finns eating this with coffee if you go to cafes, they love this sweet bun!

Local grocery shops have this, actually, scratch that – you’ll find korvapuisti everywhere you go in Finland. The best ones I’ve tried in Helsinki are from Fazer Cafe and Cafe Regatta – the latter I highly suggest going to; it is one of the best places in Helsinki.

23. Leipäjuusto lakkahillolla (Cheese bread with Cloudberry Jam) What is this?

Leipäjuusto is a type of squeaky cheese baked over an open fire, and with the direct translation to English, it is called “bread cheese.” This is traditionally eaten with cloudberry jam as dessert.

Again, leipäjuusto is a traditional Finnish food you’ll probably only find in Finland and is one of those odd sorts that are worth trying. The weird part is that this dish is often eaten as a dessert and goes well with coffee! I love this and often buy it from shops whenever I cravings for this lovely squeaky cheese.

Few restaurants might have this on their menu, but it is easy to get this from a regular food store, even the cloudberry jam you’ll find in jars, and they are pretty decent. I don’t go to restaurants for this and just buy the ones ready from shops; they’re easy and not so expensive.

For instance, a jar of cloudberry jam is about €5, and I think it is quite a steal considering how rare you’ll come across this berry from forests. They’re well known to be quite hard to find; thus, the price of cloudberries could depend on how abundant they’ll be for that year.

Leipäjuusto, on the other hand, is easy to produce and you’ll find them easily from the shops any time of the year.

24. Mustikkapiirakka (Blueberry pie)

Mustikkapiirakka or blueberry pie is yet another famous Finnish thing, usually eaten for dessert, and often found in cafes if you’re eager to taste this.

The simplest way to make this is by making a simple shortcrust pastry, laying it on a pie baking round, mixing frozen blueberries with powdered sugar and potato flour, place them on top of the pastry, and bake it till the crust is cooked. So simple and so good, especially if served warm with vanilla sauce or vanilla ice cream.

Oh, you’ll love this simple dessert! Every time I make this at home or work, it is gone before the day ends. Finnish people love this simple pie; it is one of those things they devour, especially if the berry season is on.

You can get mustikkapiirakka from cafes, and some restaurants have them on their menu if the berry season is on. Otherwise, it is easy to make this at home wherever you are in this world as long as blueberries are easy to get.

25. Pulla (Sweet bread)

Finns love a good sweet bread to go with their coffee during their break times and although a good cinnamon roll is favorable, there are still some who enjoy a good simple pulla which is a simple cardamom sweet bread topped with sugar crystals.

I made this pulla in February in time for “laskiainen” (mid-winter holiday) where I made laskiaispulla, a pulla filled with jam and whipped cream.

It is an easy-to-grab pastry that you can easily get everywhere. Also, it is a lovely treat along with your coffee or tea!

Most stores have this fresh in their pastry section or somewhere in the bread section, you can find ready-made packed sweet bread pastries.

26. Köyhät Ritarit (Finnish French Toast)

Köyhät ritarit or your basic French toast with a twist! So what makes this sweet toast any different from the regular French toast? Well, instead of old bread, you use old sweet bread! There’s this thing in Finland called “Pulla” or sweet bun in the form of bread; it has cinnamon, cardamom, and butter.

All the goodness in one bun! Just like your regular French toast, you make köyhät ritarit the same way and serve it with whipped or ice cream, and if you’re feeling fancy, you can add seasonal berries or fruits!

The awesome Finnish blogger behind Perinneruokaaprklwho also took that amazing photo of this dessert has an awesome recipe that goes with it. Unfortunately, it is in Finnish, but google translate can somewhat do the job for you!

So, it was quite a lot to put on your list, eh? Well, better start thinking about which ones you’ll hunt once you visit Finland! I only wrote down 21 traditional Finnish food in here, but trust me – there’s a lot more!

Finnish food is so simple, especially the traditional Granny-style ones, but there’s nothing more delicious than dishes your Granny can make best. Do you know what I mean? Granny food rocks! Even Anthony Bourdain agrees with that. Hope you liked this long list!

27. Vadelmakiisseli (Raspberry Kissel Custard)

As we embark upon this culinary journey through Finland, let’s make a pit stop at the alluring dessert that goes by the name of Vadelmakiisseli, a traditional Finnish food loved by many. Vadelmakiisseli is basically raspberry soup and carries with it the essence of simplicity and charm that Finnish cuisine is known for. Its ingredients are as straightforward as they can be – fresh raspberries, sugar, water, and potato starch.

Now, you might wonder why potato starch. Well, it’s used to give this ethereal dessert its unique consistency which falls somewhere between a soup and a jelly.

The recipe starts with boiling these plump red berries with sugar until they give out their juice and flavor into the simmering liquid. A slur of potato starch is then added to thicken up the mixture into a pleasant velvety soup.

But it isn’t just about its taste or consistency that makes Vadelmakiisseli special; it’s also about nostalgia and comfort. Notably served cold during hot Finnish summers or warm during cold winters, this dish speaks volumes of Finland’s love for homely comforts and seasonal bounties.

Speaking from personal experience — there’s nothing quite like savoring spoonfuls of cool raspberry soup on a balmy summer day; It’s not only soothing but extremely refreshing as well! On the flip side imagine curling up in front of a crackling fireplace while outside snow silently blankets the land; in your hands is a bowl of warm Vadelmakiisseli emitting delightful raspberry aromas — absolutely heavenly!

Let’s not forget the versatility this traditional Finnish food brings along. While traditionally enjoyed plain, modern iterations have seen dollops of ice-cream or luscious whipped cream added to enhance its richness.

The ultimate beauty of Vadelmakiisseli lies in its simplicity – ripe fruit captured at their peak encapsulated in a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re savoring it in the quiet Finnish countryside or making it at home, Vadelmakiisseli is sure to transport you straight to the heart of Finland.

28. Mansikkakakku (Strawberry Cream Cake)

For those who may not be familiar with this term, it is none other than the quintessential Finnish strawberry cake. This delicacy – a true testament to traditional Finnish food – begins its life as a delicate sponge cake.

The base is then lovingly smeared with an enchanting blend of fresh cream and vibrant strawberry jam. But the magic doesn’t stop there.

This layering process is repeated, resulting in a towering masterpiece of alternating layers of airy sponge and fruity freshness. Now, you might be thinking that’s where it ends, but you would be mistaken!

The entire creation is then enrobed in a luscious layer of whipped cream, transforming the cake into an ethereal cloud. As if that wasn’t enough to ignite your taste buds into excitement overload, an abundance of ripe strawberries are arranged on top as the crowning glory of this epicurean delight.

Each ruby-red fruit sits atop like a jewel on a crown adding not just flavor but also visual appeal to the dish. And there you have it; the Mansikkakakku in all its glory!

It truly encapsulates everything wonderful about Finnish cuisine: simplicity, freshness and an undeniable love for fruits and berries which are found aplenty in Finland’s countryside during summer months. Eating Mansikkakakku has become somewhat of an annual tradition during Finland’s Midsummer festivities or ‘Juhannus’.

Picture this: sitting by a lakeside bonfire under the midnight sun with family and friends while enjoying slices of this delightful dessert – it’s no wonder why so many people fall head over heels for Finnish culinary culture. In essence, each bite into Mansikkakakku is like biting into summer itself; one mouthful sends waves of sweet strawberries dancing across your palate underlined by rich cream and light sponge cake flavors that melt away leaving you yearning for more.

29. Munkki (Doughnuts)

Munkki is the Finnish version of doughnuts and is popularly sold around Finland’s labor day or Vappu and is usually eaten along side a famous Vappu drink, Sima. That said, you can get munkki any time of the year from bakeries and grocery stores. It is soft, sweet, and delicious.

30. Puolukkavispipuuro (Lingonberry Whipped Porridge)

This is a dessert type sweet porridge made from lingonberries and farina or semolina meal.

Its distinctive reddish-pink hue comes from the tart lingonberries, a common berry found in Finland’s forests; they’re small but pack a wallop of flavor. Preparing this dish is as much an art as it is a science.

The process begins with boiling lingonberries and sugar together until they form a deliciously sweet and sour soup. The next step involves gradually adding in semolina while stirring consistently to prevent lump formation.

Patience here is key; as tradition dictates, the mixture needs to simmer gently for about ten minutes until it thickens into that quintessential porridge consistency. Although traditionally served cold, Puolukkavispipuuro can also be enjoyed warm – particularly on chilly Finnish nights when nothing else can thaw you out quite as efficiently!

It’s commonly served with milk or cream, but I’ve seen some folks get creative and pair it with vanilla sauce or even sprinkle granola on top for added crunch. But the magic of Puolukkavispipuuro doesn’t stop at its delightful taste; it also has some impressive health benefits due to its main ingredient – lingonberries.

These tiny berries are superfoods packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients which make this treat not just indulgent but also good for your health! In closing this section about Puolukkavispipuuro, I’d like to highlight its status as an emblematic example of traditional Finnish food – simple ingredients cultivated from nature combined with time-honored culinary practices resulting in something truly extraordinary.

31. Särä

This traditional Finnish food is certainly a must-try for any culinary explorer.

Its roots date back hundreds of years, as it originated from the region of Häme in Finland. The main component?

Lamb. Yes, rack of lamb is used to prepare this flavorful dish.

The Finnish technique involves cooking the lamb slowly over several hours in a special wooden trough called “särä”, and of course, that’s where the dish gets its intriguing name from. The lamb is seasoned with just salt – simplicity at its best – allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through.

If you’re wondering about accompaniments, worry not! Potatoes cooked in the same trough along with the meat serve as an excellent companion to this rustic meal.

The särä’s taste profile is incredibly unique and rich thanks to this slow-cooking method that allows all those wonderful flavors to seep into every succulent morsel of meat. Imagine biting into tender pieces of lamb that have been slow-cooked to perfection over several hours; it’s an experience that’s out-of-this-world delicious.

Another fascinating aspect about Särä is its cultural significance in Finland. It was originally made for wedding feasts and other major celebrations because it could feed large crowds quite easily due to its hearty nature.

In contemporary times too, Särä holds a beloved spot on Finnish dinner tables especially during Easter celebrations or family gatherings, offering not only an explosion of flavors but also a sense of connection and belongingness. To wrap up on Särä – if you desire a true taste adventure that gives you a peek into centuries-old Finnish culinary traditions while offering toothsome satisfaction then look no further than this iconic dish from Finland’s Häme region.

32. Lörtsy

If there’s one traditional Finnish food item that never fails to please both locals and visitors alike, it’s the delectable Lörtsy.

This sumptuous treat is a half-moon shaped pastry hailing from the gorgeous region of Savonlinna in Eastern Finland. Its distinct shape makes it stand out from its culinary peers, while its taste – truly the stuff of legends!

Now, let me paint a picture for you: imagine biting into a tender crust that achieves a fine balance between flaky and chewy. Then comes the filling – oh the filling!

Traditionally, it’s either sweet or savory. The sweet version boasts a heartwarming apple jam filling that is gently spiced with cardamom; every bite is like tasting autumn in your mouth.

The savory counterpart typically features minced meat or rice porridge which provides a satisfying richness that fills you up without being overwhelming. But here’s where things get interesting: it’s commonly eaten on-the-go!

You’ll often see Finns casually munching on Lörtsy as they go about their day – in parks, on trams or even in busy market squares. It seems simple but trust me when I say this: there’s nothing quite like holding a warm Lörtsy on a crisp Finnish morning.

So next time you’re in Finland or at any Nordic-themed festival elsewhere in your local area, do yourself a favor and seek out this traditional Finnish food item. Your taste buds will thank you!

33. Poronkäristys

Just the sound of it takes me back to the snowy landscapes of Lapland. Now this is a dish that truly exemplifies traditional Finnish food.

For those of you who might not be familiar with the term, Poronkäristys translates to ‘sauteed reindeer’ in English. While it may seem exotic to some, it’s as commonplace in Finland as beef stew is elsewhere.

The reindeer meat used for this dish is thinly sliced and traditionally cooked in a cast iron pot over an open fire. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and gives the meat its signature tender texture.

But what sets Poronkäristys apart from other stews is its distinctive taste profile. The reindeer meat has a somewhat gamey flavor that’s enriched by the addition of earthy wild mushrooms and aromatic juniper berries – ingredients native to Lapland’s boreal forests.

The dish is typically seasoned with black pepper, salt and sometimes garlic for an added kick. To round out the flavors, a generous dollop of butter or lard goes into the pot towards the end of cooking process, making Poronkäristys rich and satisfying.

Poronkäristys is traditionally served over mashed potatoes or Finnish flatbread with pickled cucumbers and lingonberry jam on the side – an exciting contrast between savory and sweet that makes this meal deeply satisfying. Whether you’re sitting by a roaring fire in a cozy log cabin or dining at one of Helsinki’s top restaurants, enjoying a hearty plateful of Poronkäristys provides not just nourishment but an authentic taste adventure through Finnish cuisine.

34. Karjalanpiirakka

Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pie), a delightful piece of traditional Finnish food that’s won over countless palates both domestically and internationally. Just the thought of it is enough to set your mouth watering! A typical Karjalanpiirakka is a rye crust filled with rice porridge, though other variations exist.

One can also come across pies filled with potato mash or carrots. The making of these pies is an art in itself and has been passed down through generations.

Not many things can compare to the therapeutic effect of kneading the rye dough and preparing the filling from scratch, all while the heavenly aroma fills your kitchen. The pies are baked at high temperature until they turn delightfully crispy on the edges but remain soft in the centre.

They’re then brushed with a mixture of butter and boiled egg – “munavoi” as we Finns call it. This step adds an additional layer of richness to every bite, making Karjalanpiirakka a delightful combination of contrasting textures and hearty flavors.

Often enjoyed as breakfast or snack, there’s no wrong time for these savory delights! In case you’re wondering about their origin – well, as their name suggests, they hail from Karelia—a region that has witnessed numerous shifts between Russian and Finnish rule due to its location.

The resilient spirit of Karelia is reflected in this humble pie that has stood firm amid political change and become a beloved symbol representing Finnish culinary tradition. It’s fair to say that Karjalanpiirakka carries more than just rice porridge within its golden crust; it carries history, artistry, comfort—and above all—the heartiness typical in traditional Finnish food.

FAQ about Finnish food

Do Finnish people eat reindeer?

Yes, Finnish people do eat reindeer and one of the popular dishes made out of this meat is called “Poronkäristys” which is reindeer stew typically served mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam. This dish is usually more popular in Northern Finland.

What is a typical Finnish breakfast?

There are different ones but here are the most popular ones:

• Oats porridge with milk, butter, sugar, and cinnamon powder
• Rice porridge with milk, butter, sugar, cinnamon powder, and occasionally some people add jam in it
• Rye bread slathered with butter and topped with cheese slices, ham, and cucumber slices

What is Finland’s most popular food?

If you ask a Finn, you’ll probably get one of these dishes:

• Makaronilaatikko (baked macaroni)
• Karjalanpaisti (Stew from Karelia usually with beef and pork chunks, carrots, onions, and turnips) usually served with mashed potato
• Finnish meatballs (Quite the same as the famous Swedish meatballs: meatballs with gravy, mashed potatoes, and lingonberry jam)
• Creamy Salmon soup served with rye bread

What is traditional Finnish food?

The most traditional ones which you’ll probably only find in Finland:

• Karjalanpaisti
• Karelian pie
• Kalakukko

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