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Meat Stew — traditional dish from Karelia, Finland
Main course Meat

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

🔥650kcal
💪35gProtein
🌾20gCarbs
🥑48gFat
🌿3gFibre
⚖️400 gServing

* Per serving · 400 g. May vary.

Meat Stew

How to order / say it
Say it Karjalanpaisti — [KAR-yah-lahn-PYE-stee]
Order I'd like the Karelian meat stew, please.
Locally Ottaisin karjalanpaistin, kiitos.
Say locally

A slow-cooked meat stew made with various meats and root vegetables.

Why try it?

Karjalanpaisti showcases the Finnish tradition of hearty, warming dishes. It's a perfect reflection of Finland's reliance on locally available ingredients for nourishment during cold winters.

How it tastes

The stew is deeply savory, with tender meats infused with the rich flavors of vegetables and spices after hours of simmering, creating a comforting aroma and satisfying mouthfeel.

Origin & History — first documented: 1850

Originating in Karelia, this stew became known throughout Finland during the 19th century as a family meal meant to utilize tougher cuts of meat, exemplifying Finnish hospitality.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 🥩 300 g beef cubes
  • 🥩 200 g pork cubes
  • 🥕 100 g carrots
  • 🧄 100 g onions
  • 🧂 1 tsp black pepper
  • 🌿 2 pcs bay leaves

Method

  1. 1 Layer meat and vegetables in a pot, season with salt and spices.
  2. 2 Add water to cover ingredients completely.
  3. 3 Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for several hours until tender.
  4. 4 Serve warm, allowing flavors to meld.

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All Europe recipes — Finland — Helsinki — Meat Stew
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