Lihapitoisia

Lihapitoisia is a Finnish term that translates to "meat-filled" or "containing meat." It is commonly used to describe food items, particularly baked goods or pastries, that have a savory filling made primarily of minced meat. These items are a popular and traditional part of Finnish cuisine, often enjoyed as a snack, a light meal, or a part of a larger spread.

The dough used for lihapitoisia can vary. It might be a soft, yeasted dough similar to that used for bread, or a flakier pastry dough, depending on the specific recipe and regional variations. The meat filling is typically seasoned with ingredients like onions, salt, pepper, and sometimes allspice or other herbs. Cooked ground beef or pork are common choices for the meat, though combinations are also frequent.

Lihapitoisia can take many forms. They might be small, individual portions, often folded into a crescent or triangular shape, or larger pies intended to be sliced. They are usually baked until golden brown. The term itself is descriptive, emphasizing the substantial presence of meat within the item. While often associated with savory baked goods, it can more broadly refer to any dish where meat is a significant component of a filling.