Visiting Finland? Savor these authentic snacks
What's the story
Finland, with its stunning landscapes and rich culture, is also home to a number of delicious and unique vegetarian snacks. Perfect for anyone keen on exploring Finnish cuisine sans meat, these timeless vegetarian snacks reflect the country's culinary traditions. From savory pastries to sweet treats, these vegetarian snacks offer a taste of Finland's diverse food heritage. Here are some must-try Finnish vegetarian snacks you should sample on your next visit.
Karelian treats
Karelian pasties: A savory delight
Karelian pasties, or karjalanpiirakka, are traditional Finnish pastries with a thin rye crust filled with rice porridge. Usually eaten with a butter spread on top, these pasties taste simple yet satisfying. Available in bakeries all over Finland, they make for a popular snack or breakfast item. The hearty rye crust and creamy filling make them an enduring favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Rye tradition
Rye bread: A staple snack
Another staple of Finnish cuisine is rye bread, which you can commonly see snacking on or having as a meal. This dense bread is made from whole grain rye flour and has a distinct flavor that blends well with all kinds of toppings from cheese to fresh vegetables. Nutritious and deeply rooted in Finnish food culture, rye bread is best toasted or eaten plain.
Berry bliss
Mustikkapiirakka: Blueberry pie bliss
Mustikkapiirakka is a traditional blueberry pie that displays Finland's love for berries. This dessert has fresh blueberries packed into a buttery crust, bringing sweetness and tartness in every bite. Served with vanilla sauce or ice cream, it is particularly popular in the summer months when blueberries are in season. This pie brings out the flavors of Finland's forests while serving as a delightful treat for any occasion.
Cheese delight
Leipajuusto: Squeaky cheese snack
Another beloved Finnish snack option is leipajuusto, aka squeaky cheese/bread cheese. This mild cheese made from cow's milk has a unique texture that squeaks when bitten into it—hence its name! Traditionally served warm with cloudberry jam on top (though other jams work too), leipajuusto offers an interesting contrast between savory cheese flavors and sweet fruitiness—a true testament to Finland's culinary creativity!