John Myers
Introduction: Finnish Street Food Culture
Street food culture has gained immense popularity in recent times, and Finland is no exception. Finnish street food offers a lot of variety and deliciousness. The Finnish street food scene has come a long way, and there is something to suit everyone’s taste buds. Whether you are a meat lover or a vegetarian, a sweet tooth or a savory food lover, Finnish street food has got you covered.
Must-Try Savory Street Foods in Finland
When it comes to savory street food, the classic Finnish meat pie is a must-try. This handheld delight is made of a flaky pastry shell filled with a savory meat filling, usually beef or pork, and baked to perfection. Another popular savory street food is the Karelian pasty, a traditional Finnish pastry made of rye flour and filled with rice or potato. Another Finnish favorite is the grilled sausages, which are sold at various food stands and kiosks across the country.
Finnish Sweet Treats for a Quick Snack
Finnish cuisine offers an abundance of sweet treats for those who crave something sugary on the go. One of the most popular sweet street foods is the Finnish cinnamon roll, which is known as korvapuusti. Korvapuusti is a soft, sweet, and cinnamon-packed pastry that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. Another Finnish delight is the Runeberg cake, a small almond and rum-flavored pastry that is typically consumed on Runeberg Day, 5th February.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options on the Streets of Finland
Finnish street food culture caters to vegans and vegetarians as well. The Falafel is one such option that is widely available across the streets of Finland. Made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices, falafel is served in a pita bread and is usually topped with vegetables, hummus, and tahini sauce. Another vegan street food favorite is the vegan pulled oats, a protein-packed oat-based dish that resembles pulled pork.
Where to Find the Best Street Food in Helsinki
Helsinki is known for its street food scene, and there are various places to find the best street food in the city. The Market Square is one such place, where different food stalls are set up daily, offering a variety of Finnish street food and international cuisine. The Hietalahti Market Hall is also a popular spot, and it is open daily from morning until evening.
Unique Finnish Beverages to Pair with Your Street Food
Finnish street food is incomplete without the perfect beverage to pair with it. A popular Finnish beverage is the salty licorice drink, which is made from the root of the licorice plant. Another unique Finnish drink is the cloudberry drink, which is made from the rare Arctic cloudberry, a bright orange berry that grows in the northern part of Finland. For those who prefer a hot beverage, the Finnish coffee culture is a must-try, with specialty coffee shops found all over Helsinki.
In conclusion, Finnish street food culture is diverse and has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are a meat lover, vegetarian, or have a sweet tooth, Finnish street food has got you covered. So, the next time you are in Finland, be sure to try out some of the delicious street food options.
