Classic Finnish Recipes

Simple, delicious, and natural, three words that aptly describe Finnish cuisine.  Still not sure?  Then take a look at these traditional Finnish recipes and decide for yourself!

While similar in many ways to Swedish cuisine, Finns still have their own tweaks and preferences that characterize their own.

The following recipes will give you a taste of traditional Finnish food — so take your pick(s) and try them at home.

Jump to:

• Classic Finnish bread
• Traditional Finnish soups
• Traditional Finnish casseroles
• Authentic Finnish desserts

Classic Finnish bread

Carrot Bread Rolls

These soft bread rolls are excellent for breakfast or as an accompaniment to a bowl of soup.  

You get just a hint of sweetness, so they go so well with jam, butter, or cheese — whatever you’re in the mood for.

Traditional Finnish soups

Summer Vegetable Soup

Light, summer goodness in every serving of this delightful soup.  You wouldn’t think it would work if you look at the list of simple ingredients, but trust me, it does.

Try it, and I bet you’ll be a fan too. 🙂

Lohikeitto (Finnish Salmon Soup)

An authentic Finnish recipe that will transport you straight to Helsinki market; perfect for those days that you want to cozy up with a warm bowl of hearty soup at home.

Traditional Finnish casseroles

Ground Beef & Cabbage Casserole

I don’t normally prepare anything else when I serve this. I got everything in there – ground meat, rice, then cabbage as my vegetables, all the major food groups in every serving.

The leftovers for this casserole tastes even better because of how the rice has absorbed all the flavors.  Yum!

Porkkanalaatikko (Finnish Carrot Casserole)

A staple in every Finnish household’s Christmas table; it’s a creamy and slightly sweet casserole that pairs so well with baked ham.

You have to try that combination to see for yourself.  Trust me, this classic casserole and ham — heavenly pairing.

Authentic Finnish desserts

Finnish Oven-Baked Pancake

Did you notice it’s under dessert, not breakfast?

That’s right because that’s how the Finns enjoy their pancakes — served with fresh fruits, jam, or sugared lingonberries. Yum!

So, have you decided which traditional Finnish recipe to try first? Let me know in the comment section below!