Sweet, Savory, and Everything in Between
In Finland, oats are more than just a breakfast staple; they’re woven into the fabric of daily life. The average Finn consumes nearly ten kilograms of these versatile grains each year, making oats truly the ultimate culinary chameleon. You’ll find them gracing tables as creamy porridge, hearty breads, delectable biscuits, flaky pies, and fluffy pancakes.
Store shelves in Finland are a veritable treasure trove of refined oat products, from crisp snacks and liquorice to oat-based pasta and meat alternatives. The innovation doesn’t stop there—Finns can also choose from a variety of dairy alternatives like oat beverages and ice creams, ensuring there’s an oat-based delight for every palate.
Bringing Comfort to the Table
There’s something inherently nostalgic about eating oats. For many Finns, starting the day with a warm bowl of oatmeal is a cherished tradition passed down through generations. A national survey commissioned by Raisio Group found that nearly half of Finns enjoy porridge on weekday mornings, illustrating its role as not just a meal but as a source of comfort.
The beauty of Finnish porridge lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the oats to shine through. Finns often enhance their porridge with a pat of butter, a splash of milk, or a handful of fresh berries, adhering to the tradition of achieving a perfect balance without overwhelming sweetness.
Healthy Living with Oats
In Finland, oats are commonly consumed as whole grains, meaning they retain all their nutrient-rich components. Research has shown that beta-glucan, a water-soluble fiber found in oats, effectively lowers cholesterol levels. High in fiber, oats contribute to digestive health and support beneficial gut bacteria.
Beyond fiber, oats are an excellent source of antioxidants and selenium, both essential for a robust immune system and the body’s ability to fend off infections—truly, a superfood worth celebrating.
A Hub of Innovation
Finland stands as the world’s second-largest producer of oats, following Canada, and contributes to 13% of all oats grown in Europe. The country has emerged as a leader in oat research and product development.
With the rise of plant-based proteins and meat alternatives, Finnish companies like Raisio, Valio, and Fazer have embraced this trend, driving innovation in oat-based products. They’re not only creating new options but also developing gluten-free and allergen-friendly alternatives, catering to a wide array of dietary needs.
Cookie Delight: A Simple Recipe
Oats are not just about wholesome breakfasts; every Finn learns to bake simple crispy oat cookies in secondary school home economics classes. Here’s a recipe to try:
- 4 dl (1.7 cups) rolled oats
- 2 dl (0.85 cups) sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar
- 2 tbsp wheat flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 100 g (3.5 oz) butter (melted and cooled)
- 2 eggs
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients together, then stir in the melted butter. Add the eggs and combine until smooth.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drop spoonfuls of the dough onto it, allowing room for spreading. Bake for 6 to 7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Let them cool completely; they’ll crisp up as they cool.
By Veera Kaukoniemi, ThisisFINLAND Magazine
Illustration: Hilla Ruuskanen