Fish is an important part of Finnish cuisine and can be prepared numerous ways, including smoked, grilled, pickled, baked and steamed. Types of fish commonly served include perch, salmon, crayfish, herring, roes, turbot and Atlantic char.
A meat-lover's paradise, Finnish dishes often feature reindeer, elk, wild duck, snow grouse and wood pigeon. Popular meat dishes including meat tartare and roasted reindeer are sure to tempt a dedicated carnivore's taste buds.
Potatoes in almost every form are a staple of Finnish cooking. Turnips and other root vegetables are the most common vegetables besides potatoes, and dill and parsley are the herbs most commonly used.
Darker, strong-tasting breads such as sour rye, bread cheese and rye crisp bread are common favorites. These darker breads pair well with reindeer and elk dishes.
Berries frequently adorn main courses and desserts. Ligonberries, cloudberries, bilberries, rowan berries and sea buckthorn berries are the most commonly used berries.
