Our path leads from the Finnish Archipelago Sea to Helsinki, exploring Finnish crayfish, cold-smoked fish and herring. From Helsinki, we continue to the lake district in Central Finland, the nearby Savo region, and the vicinity of the eastern border in Finnish Karelia, tasting inland fish and salmon.
Salty cold-smoked salmon serves as an appetizer, a cocktail bite, and even as a treat for the best parties.
The crayfish party tradition, which spread to Finland through the Finnish-Swedish population, is an event for crayfish, cold drinks, and drinking songs at the end of summer and beginning of autumn.
Pickled herring has such a unique and strong flavor. It's eaten in Finland all year round, especially during festive occasions. Herring is a prized delicacy, caught from the Atlantic.
Silakka, or Baltic herring, is a key ingredient in Finnish cuisine and is prepared in various mouthwatering ways, like casseroles and patties.
Carl Gustaf Mannerheim appreciated good food and, as a cosmopolitan, was also familiar with the world’s cuisines. During the war, he particularly enjoyed pan fried pike-perch at the Mikkeli Club.
Pan fried vendace is a popular delicacy in Finland during the summer season. It's especially sold at local marketplaces.
Burbot soup is a traditional Finnish white fish soup that's hearty and perfect for cold days. It's a comforting and nourishing dish that showcases the simplicity and flavors of Finnish cuisine.
Rantakala is a traditional Finnish fish soup, originally made simply by boiling fish in lightly salted water. It became popular among inland fishermen due to its ease and speed of preparation, often cooked over a campfire in a cast iron pot.
Savonia region's fish pie, kalakukko, is a traditional dish where fish and pork belly are baked inside a rye bread crust. This richly flavored delicacy is enjoyed with melted butter.
Baked salmon with smetana is a popular Finnish dish made with fish, typically perch or salmon, and a sour cream sauce. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy meal.
