In Finland, nature serves as an abundant pantry, brimming with fresh fish, game, wild fruits, mushrooms, artisanal cheese, and strawberries. The country’s unique ‘right to roam’ legislation allows everyone to forage freely, irrespective of land ownership, making it a gastronomic dream come true. Finnish chefs are known for their relentless pursuit of fresh, seasonal ingredients in the great outdoors. Emphasizing sustainability, they champion locally sourced foods with a minimal carbon footprint, crafting exquisite dishes that celebrate the country’s rich natural bounty.
So, when you find yourself wandering through this Nordic wonderland, what culinary delights should you indulge in?
1. Karelian Pie
Starting your day with a Karelian pie is an experience like no other. These delightful pastries, shaped like little boats, feature a crust of rye or wheat, generously filled with a creamy potato or rice porridge and rich egg butter. You’ll find them widely available in cafés, bakeries, and hotel breakfast buffets—a true breakfast staple for locals.
2. Fish
If you’re in Helsinki, a visit to the bustling main harbor is a feast for the eyes and senses. The orange-topped market stalls brim with fresh catches, showcasing Finland’s deep love for fish. Particularly noteworthy is the pike, which, despite its bony reputation, can be transformed into delightful dishes. At Alexanderplats, a chic bistro on Helsinki’s scenic Esplanadi, I savored pike quenelles served in a creamy broth—pure culinary bliss.
With a third of the country resting above the Arctic Circle, Norway’s famed salmon thrives in the pristine rivers of Finnish Lapland, lending itself beautifully to a beloved local dish: salmon soup. Whether prepared with cream or thickened with potatoes, it embodies the essence of simple yet indulgent fare.
3. Beef Turnover or Meat Pie
The beef turnover, a stuffed pastry with roots in comforting street food, consists of a delightful donut dough filled with beef, ham, or egg, and fried to golden perfection. It’s a popular choice for those on the go.
4. Traditional Mushroom Salad
Preserving foraged mushrooms has long been a Finnish tradition, with these culinary treasures brined, layered with herbs, and weighted down for winter storage. Chopped and mixed with onions and cream, they create a hearty salad that’s perfect for gatherings. If you visit in autumn, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to forage your own mushrooms, truly connecting you with the land.
5. Strawberry Cake or Kiisseli
While Finland’s strawberry season is fleeting, it’s nothing short of magical. Long days filled with sunshine bless strawberries with a unique sweetness that locals revel in. The classic Strawberry Cake, a delicious assembly of sponge, cream, and juicy fruit, is a must-try. Alternatively, for something a bit lighter, kiisseli—a refreshing fruit soup—makes for a delightful treat at breakfast and dessert alike.
6. Rye Bread
To call rye bread a staple in Finnish culture would be an understatement; it was even voted the national food during the centenary celebrations. Many Finnish households preserve a traditional fermentation starter, known as “the root of the bread,” passed down through generations. This rye bread strikes a perfect balance—not as sweet as its Swedish counterpart and lighter than the denser varieties found in Germany or the Baltic states. It’s not only delicious but also high in fiber, contributing to manageable blood glucose levels. You can even pick up a loaf at the airport to take home as a gift!
A slice of this bread pairs wonderfully with Aura cheese, a semi-soft, tangy blue cheese made from cow’s milk, reminiscent of Roquefort and named after the Aura River. It’s especially delightful in cheese soups, and you’ll find plenty of artisanal cheeses at both the Old Market Hall by the harbor and the charming Hakaniemi market square.
7. Coffee and a Bun?
Finns have a deep-rooted love for sweet buns, and there’s a delightful variety for every season. Yet, cinnamon buns, affectionately known as “ear buns,” hold a special place, traditionally baked on Saturdays. They are the Finnish answer to the comforting British cup of tea—perfect companions for almost any occasion. As a devoted fan, I found that the ones I tried in Helsinki were notably more cinnamon-forward and less sticky than their Swedish counterparts. If you’re on a quest for the ultimate cinnamon bun experience, Helsinki is a delightful playground.
If you’re looking for something different, keep an eye out for “piglet donuts,” or the whimsically named pig donut. These square, jam-filled pastries rolled in sugar come with folds that resemble the ears of a piglet, making them not just delicious but also a treat for the eyes.
8. Berries and Forest Fruits
Serenading the Finnish landscape, wild berries thrive in the lush forests and bogs. As you stroll through the countryside, you’ll spot shrubs laden with bilberries—akin to blueberries—perfect for a classic Finnish blueberry pie, a delightful fusion of cake and cheesecake. The cloudberry season kicks off in mid-July, slightly extending the experience through jam-making, as cloudberry jam is a cherished companion for bread and cheese.
Lingonberries also flourish in the boreal forests and offer a uniquely tart flavor. If you’re in the vicinity of Levain, don’t miss out on their lingonberry Brita cake, a signature delight often gracing birthday celebrations. With its layer of meringue, this cake is so enticing that it might just edge out the famed Strawberry Cake—but perhaps I should indulge in both before making a final verdict.
9. Liquorice Ice Cream
Finns hold a passionate affection for liquorice, even embracing a salty variety whimsically known as “straitjacket.” If you’re skeptical, consider giving it a try in ice cream form. Jādelino, an artisan ice cream maker located in the transformed Teurastamo, offers unique flavors worth sampling. While visiting, don’t miss the chance to grab a bottle of local gin from the Helsinki Distilling Company, perfect for mixing a refreshing Finnish long drink.
10. The Long Drink
While technically not a food, the Finnish long drink is an essential experience not to be overlooked. This refreshing mix of gin and grapefruit is served in various locations, including saunas—a true emblem of Finnish indulgence. During my visit to Löyly, a stunning wooden sauna by the Gulf of Finland, I enjoyed a dip in the cool waters, followed by a sip of a long drink while gazing at the serene sea—a blissful end to an unforgettable journey.