Bitteistä

Bitteistä is a traditional Finnish dish that has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique blend of flavors and textures. The name "bitteistä" translates to "bitter soup" in English, referring to the bitterness of the birch leaves used as a primary ingredient. The dish is typically made with birch leaves, potatoes, and sometimes other vegetables like carrots or onions. The birch leaves are boiled and then blended into a soup, giving it a distinctive green color and a slightly bitter taste.

The preparation of bitteistä involves several steps. First, the birch leaves are collected in the spring when they are young and tender. They are then boiled in water to remove any impurities and to soften them. After boiling, the leaves are blended into a smooth soup, which is then seasoned with salt and sometimes other spices like black pepper or dill. The potatoes are peeled and diced, and they are boiled separately until tender. Once the potatoes are cooked, they are added to the birch leaf soup and the mixture is heated until the flavors are well combined.

Bitteistä is often served as a side dish or a light meal. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other Finnish dishes like herring or smoked salmon. The dish is particularly popular during the spring and summer months when birch leaves are abundant. It is also a popular choice for those looking to try traditional Finnish cuisine.