Finnish cuisine

Finnish Cuisine is the style of cooking originating from Finland. The cuisine of the country can be generally described as a combination of traditional and contemporary styles, with influences from both East and West.

History

The history of Finnish cuisine dates back to the early settlers of Finland, who relied heavily on fishing, hunting, and gathering. Over time, the cuisine evolved to incorporate more agricultural products, particularly after the introduction of potatoes in the 18th century.

Ingredients

Key ingredients in Finnish cuisine include potatoes, rye, barley, oats, and dairy products. Fresh and preserved fish, pork, and game are also commonly used. Berries, such as bilberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries, are an important part of Finnish cuisine, used in desserts and sometimes also in savory dishes.

Dishes

Finnish cuisine is known for its simplicity and reliance on fresh ingredients. Some popular dishes include Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties), Kalakukko (fish pie), and Ruisleipä (rye bread). Finnish cuisine also includes a variety of dairy products, such as Leipäjuusto (bread cheese) and Piimä (buttermilk).

Drinks

Coffee is a staple in Finnish cuisine, with Finland having one of the highest per capita consumption rates in the world. Milk and buttermilk are also commonly consumed. In terms of alcoholic beverages, sahti, a traditional Finnish beer, and Koskenkorva, a brand of vodka, are popular.

Holidays and Festivals

Finnish cuisine is also characterized by specific dishes associated with holidays. For example, Mämmi is a traditional Finnish Easter dessert, and Joulutorttu (Christmas tart) is a staple of Finnish Christmas celebrations.

See Also

• Culture of Finland
• History of Finland
• Finnish traditions

References

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