Traditional Finnish Fish Pie Recipe: How to Make Kuopio’s Famous Kalakukko

Kalakukko, also known as Finnish fish pie, is a traditional dish from the region of Finland. It is made with a mixture of fish, pork, and bacon, all encased in a crispy bread crust. This hearty dish has a long history and is still enjoyed by many Finns today.

The origins of Kalakukko can be traced back to the days of the Finnish countryside, where people would use the ingredients readily available to them to make a filling meal. Fish from the nearby lakes and rivers, along with pork and bacon from the farm, were combined to create this savory dish. It was also a convenient meal for farmers, as it could be made in advance and then easily transported to the fields.

The Taste of Kuopio

Kuopio, located in the region of Eastern Finland, is particularly known for its love and appreciation of Kalakukko. The city has a long history of fishing and farming, which has greatly influenced the local cuisine. Many restaurants and cafes in Kuopio serve Kalakukko as a traditional dish and it’s also common to find street vendors selling slices of Kalakukko as a snack. It is considered as a staple food in Kuopio and is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

In addition to its love for Kalakukko, Kuopio is also known for its beautiful lakes and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the year.

Visiting Kuopio and trying a slice of Kalakukko is a great way to immerse oneself in the local culture and history. The unique combination of flavors and textures in this traditional dish, along with the beautiful natural setting of Kuopio, make for a truly memorable culinary experience.

Making Kalakukko is a bit of a labor of love, but the end result is well worth it. The recipe calls for a variety of fish, such as whitefish, pike, and perch, along with pork and bacon. The fish is first boiled and then minced, while the pork and bacon are diced. These ingredients are then mixed together with spices and placed inside a bread crust. The pie is then baked until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Kalakukko Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb whitefish
• 1 lb pike
• 1 lb perch
• 1 lb pork
• 1 lb bacon
• 1 tbsp allspice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb rye bread dough
• Optional Lingonberry Jam

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the fish in a large pot of water for 10-15 minutes, until cooked through. Drain the fish and let it cool. Once cooled, mince the fish.
3. Dice the pork and bacon and mix them together with the minced fish, allspice, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out the rye bread dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Place the fish mixture in the center of the dough and wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges to create a sealed pie.
6. Bake the Kalakukko for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
7. Let the Kalakukko cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Get some lingonberry jam

Summary

Kalakukko is a traditional Finnish dish that is perfect for a hearty and comforting meal. The combination of fish, pork, and bacon, all encased in a crispy bread crust, creates a unique and delicious flavor. While the recipe is a bit time-consuming, the end result is well worth it. Serve with lingonberry jam or mashed potatoes for a true Finnish experience.

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