finnish summer food

Forest harvest

The fruits of the forest, like berries and mushrooms, belong to everyone. By law, anyone who wants to pick them, is allowed to do so. Try to get a Finn to reveal their secret spot. Sometimes the location of a good picking spot has been passed down for generations.

Aside from the traditional picking and preserving, foraging has lately become very popular amongst young chefs and food professionals. The collection of wild herbs and edible flowers during the summer months is on the rise with the general population as well, but yet to reach it’s peak. You can start light and easy by making your own nettle soup, or using flowers like lilacs, violas and cornflowers to decorate your salads and baked goods.

Lumps of gold

Some say that we Finns love our potatoes the most, and this is true especially during early summer. It is impossible to imagine a summer meal without the steaming pot of small new potatoes. The new potatoes of spring are soft and smooth skinned, and full of vitamins and flavour. Boil them carefully and toss in a fragrant branch of dill in the pot before serving with butter.

Outdoor cooking

With the summer being short and sweet in the Northern hemisphere, it’s understandable that we like to do most of the cooking and eating outdoors. Yards, parks and even balconies fill with people grilling and enjoying dinner together. In the country, ex-tempore outdoor kitchens and elaborate grilling places can be found everywhere.

Better together

Cooking and eating together is at the centre of Finnish summer eating.  Friends or family are often asked to come over and bring something from their garden. They can even help to row the boat while the nets are lifted. It’s a true pleasure to cook together and then enjoy a meal under the magical midnight sun.