Explore Lapland's Arctic Cuisine: Traditional Finnish Food Guide

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is a land of breathtaking wilderness, rich Sami culture, and a deep-rooted culinary heritage. Arctic cuisine in Lapland is shaped by its cold climate, pristine nature, and centuries-old traditions that emphasize local ingredients such as game, fish, berries, and reindeer. If you’re planning to explore the wonders of Finnish Lapland, immersing yourself in its unique food culture is a must.

Last updated: 13.03.2025

Reindeer Meat: The Heart of Lapland’s Cuisine

Reindeer meat is a staple in Lapland and an essential part of Finland food culture. The indigenous Sami people have herded reindeer for centuries, using every part of the animal for survival. The meat is lean, rich in protein, and has a slightly gamey yet delicate flavour. One of the most famous dishes is poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer), often served with mashed potatoes, lingonberries, and pickles. Smoked reindeer, reindeer jerky, and grilled reindeer steaks are also popular ways to enjoy this Finland national dish. Reindeer meat is available in most traditional restaurants in Lapland and is a must-try for any visitor looking to experience authentic Arctic cuisine. It is commonly used in soups and stews, adding a deep, rich flavour to broths. Many high-end restaurants also offer reindeer fillet with wild mushroom sauce, highlighting the umami-rich taste of the Arctic. If you visit a Sami village, you may get to experience reindeer cooked over an open fire, a traditional cooking method passed down for generations. The mild and tender texture of reindeer meat makes it an excellent ingredient for cured meats and sausages. Reindeer meat is also a nutritious option, as it is lower in fat compared to other red meats, making it a preferred choice for health-conscious individuals. Some variations of reindeer dishes include slow-braised reindeer with root vegetables, allowing the flavours to deepen over time. Many locals prepare reindeer meat with juniper berries, which complement its natural richness and enhance its taste. Traditionally, reindeer meat was preserved through drying and smoking, methods that are still practiced today, ensuring its availability throughout the long Arctic winters. Reindeer meat is a staple in Lapland and an essential part of Finland food culture.
Visit Great Winter Lapland tour to explore the landscapes where reindeer roam freely and taste this authentic delicacy.

2-4

% of fat containing reindeer meat
over 1,000

Sami people have been herding reindeer
2 million

kilograms of reindeer meat Finns consume annually

Arctic Fish: Freshwater and Sea Specialties

With thousands of lakes, rivers, and access to the Arctic Ocean, Finland has an abundance of fresh fish. Arctic char, whitefish, salmon, and vendace are among the most commonly eaten fish in Lapland. Traditional Finnish food often includes fish prepared in a variety of ways, from smoking and curing to grilling and stewing. One of the most iconic dishes is loimulohi, or flame-grilled salmon, cooked over an open fire on a wooden plank. Another favourite is kalakukko, a savoury fish pie made with rye crust, typically filled with vendace. Cold-smoked salmon is another delicacy, enjoyed with dark rye bread and butter.Fish roe, particularly vendace roe, is a luxurious delicacy, often paired with blinis and sour cream.
Experience authentic Arctic fish dishes on the Helsinki and Finnish Lapland tour, where you can enjoy local specialties in picturesque surroundings.

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That's interesting!
Many Arctic fish species, such as whitefish and Arctic char, have adapted to the extreme cold by developing a delicate yet firm texture that makes them perfect for smoking and grilling. Their slow growth in the cold waters of Lapland results in a rich, deep flavour that is prized in Finnish cuisine.

Lappish Berries: Nature’s Superfoods

Lapland’s pristine environment provides an abundance of wild berries, which play a significant role in Finnish cuisine. Cloudberries, lingonberries, bilberries, and cranberries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them highly valued in traditional cooking. Cloudberries, known as Lakka, are particularly prized for their sweet yet tart flavour and are often used in desserts, jams, and liqueurs. Lingonberries accompany many savoury dishes, providing a balance of sweetness and acidity. Berries are also used in porridge, baked goods, and warm drinks, offering a natural taste of the Arctic. Traditional Finnish desserts often incorporate berries, such as vispipuuro, a whipped lingonberry porridge, and mustikkapiirakka, a blueberry pie made with a buttery crust.

Berry-infused liquors, such as cloudberry liqueur or bilberry vodka, are popular souvenirs and drinks. Many local restaurants offer wild berry sorbets, which are refreshing and highlight the Arctic's natural bounty. Herbal teas made from dried berries and leaves are a common warm beverage choice in Lapland. Foraging for berries in Lapland’s forests is a beloved summer tradition among locals.
Taste these Nordic superfoods on the Finnish Arctic Adventure tour and discover their role in Lapland’s rich culinary traditions.

Ruisleipä (Rye Bread): A Finnish Staple

Rye bread, or ruisleipä, is a cornerstone of Finland food culture. It has been a staple for centuries, providing a rich source of energy for people living in the harsh Arctic climate. It is made from wholegrain rye, giving it a dense texture and slightly sour taste. Unlike soft wheat bread, Finnish rye bread is robust and can stay fresh for weeks. One of the most traditional variations is reikäleipä, a round flatbread with a hole in the middle, traditionally hung on poles to dry. Another variation is hapankorppu, a crispbread that pairs well with butter, cheese, or smoked fish. Finnish people eat rye bread daily, whether as an accompaniment to meals or as an open-faced sandwich topped with butter and smoked reindeer. Many locals enjoy their rye bread with a slice of juustoleipä (Finnish squeaky cheese) and cloudberry jam. Some Finnish households make sourdough rye bread using starter cultures passed down through generations. Rye porridge, made by soaking and slow-cooking rye grains, is another nutritious way to consume this staple. Traditional rye-based pastries, such as karjalanpiirakka, combine rye crust with rice porridge filling. The high fiber content in rye bread supports digestion and is a key reason for its enduring popularity. Its dense structure and tangy taste make it a satisfying addition to any meal, whether paired with soups, cheeses, or smoked fish. Some modern variations include seeds and grains, adding extra crunch and nutrients. Rye bread is also a fundamental part of Finnish holiday feasts, often served with festive spreads and toppings.
Try freshly baked rye bread on the Finland Northern Lights Adventure tour while enjoying the magical Arctic scenery.

Lihakeitto and Hernekeitto: Finnish Soups for Cold Winters

Soups are an essential part of traditional Finnish food, offering warmth and nourishment during long Arctic winters. Lihakeitto, a hearty meat soup made with beef, potatoes, carrots, and root vegetables, is a classic comfort dish. Another popular soup is hernekeitto, a pea soup typically served on Thursdays, often accompanied by a slice of rye bread and a dollop of mustard. The simplicity of these soups highlights the importance of locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods in Finnish cuisine. Fish soups made with Arctic char or salmon are also popular, often enriched with cream and dill.

Another beloved dish is mustamakkara, a black sausage commonly served with lingonberry jam. Kesäkeitto, a summer soup made with fresh vegetables and milk, is enjoyed during warmer months. Some variations of Finnish soups include barley or oat grains, making them even more filling. Thick, slow-cooked stews, such as moose stew, are another staple of Arctic cuisine.
Warm up with a bowl of Finnish soup while on the Finnish Lapland & Northern Lights for Families tour, a perfect way to experience local flavours with your loved ones.

An interesting fact about Lapland's local cuisine is that it features ingredients sourced from the region’s nature, such as reindeer meat, cloudberries, and fresh fish from pristine lakes. Reindeer meat is commonly served in stews and steaks, while cloudberries are used in jams and desserts. Wild game like moose and hares also feature prominently in traditional dishes. The region’s unique flavors reflect the rich Arctic environment, with over 200,000 reindeer in Lapland, contributing to both culture and cuisine.

Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pasties): A Beloved Finnish Snack

Karjalanpiirakka, or Karelian pasties, are one of Finland’s most famous baked goods and a staple of traditional Finnish food. These rustic pastries originate from the Karelia region and are made with a thin rye crust filled with rice porridge, mashed potatoes, or carrot puree. They are commonly enjoyed with a spread of munavoi, a simple yet delicious mixture of butter and hard-boiled eggs. Karjalanpiirakka is often served at breakfast or as a snack with coffee, making it a beloved part of daily life in Finland. While simple in appearance, their taste and texture offer a satisfying contrast between the crispy rye crust and the soft, creamy filling. The dish has been recognised as a traditional specialty in Finland. Enjoy this Finnish classic while exploring the Arctic on the Helsinki and Finn ish Lapland tour, where you can savour the best of Lapland’s culinary offerings.

Lapland’s cuisine is deeply connected to its rugged landscapes, indigenous traditions, and seasonal ingredients. From reindeer and Arctic fish to wild berries and hearty soups, every dish tells a story of survival and celebration in the far north. Exploring traditional Finnish food is an essential part of any visit to Lapland tours, offering an authentic taste of its heritage. Whether enjoying a meal in a rustic log cabin or a fine-dining restaurant, you’ll find that Lapland’s food is as unforgettable as its natural beauty.