Finland has a rich food culture and there are many dishes which are unique to the country. Here are some suggestions from us on a few of the specialities worth trying during your visit to Helsinki.
Although many traditional dishes in Finland include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, there are many vegetarian and vegan options easily available at most grocery stores and restaurants.
Baked goods
- Ruisleipä (Rye bread), rye bread in Finland is made from sourdough and whole grain flour. It is very healthy and filling, and can be found at all grocery stores.
- Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pies), a savory baked good filled either with rice porridge, mashed potato, or mashed carrots. You can eat them warm or cold. They are often served with egg butter, which is just a mix of eggs and butter.
- Kalakukko (fish pie), a dish specifically from the Savonia region of Finland, it is basically fish baked inside a loaf of bread.
Main dishes
- Poronkäristys (Sautéed reindeer), thinly sliced reindeer meat sautéed with onions and served over mashed potatoes with a side of tart lingonberry jam and pickles.
- Hernekeitto (Pea soup), creamy split-pea soup served with mustard and onions, sometimes contains pork, sometimes not, and is frequently served on Thursdays.
- Makaronilaatikko (Macaroni casserole), a baked macaroni dish usually with meat, eggs, and milk. Casseroles are popular in Finland and around Christmas casseroles made of potato, carrot, rutabaga, and liver are eaten as side-dishes.
- Pinaattiohukainen (Spinach pancakes), savory pancakes eaten as a main course for lunch. Depending on where you are in Finland they are either eaten with tart lingonberry jam, applesauce, or other toppings.
Sweet treats
- Korvapuusti (Cinnamon bun), a traditional Finnish delicacy that often accompanies coffee. You can find them at practically any cafe,
- Mustikkapiirakka (Blueberry pie), made of blueberries (or rather bilberries) that were originally picked from Finnish forests.
- Pannukakku (Oven pancakes), often served as a desert to go with pea soup on Thursdays. Usually eaten with berry jam and whipped cream.
- Salmiakki (Salty liquorice), a very popular treat in Finland. You can find many varieties in the candy section of every grocery store, and licorice flavored ice-cream and other foods can also be found.
- Mämmi (Baked rye porridge), a bit of an acquired taste, this traditional dish used to be taken on long trips since it’s nutrient-dense and does not require refrigeration. Nowadays it is mostly eaten around Easter with cream. It has a sweet and malty flavor, just don’t let the look of it confuse you, it’s not chocolate!
Want to know where you can find these dishes and more during your visit? We will follow-up with another post with some suggestions about cafés, restaurants, and bars in Helsinki in a few days.