Silputusta

Silputusta is a term from Finnish that refers to the act of finely chopping ingredients, or to the material produced by that action. In cooking contexts, it describes foods that have been minced to a fine or coarse texture, depending on the recipe. The word derives from the verb silputa, which means to mince or chop finely. The related noun silputus denotes the process or the result, and silputusta appears as a grammatical form used to indicate the act or material in various contexts, such as recipes or menus.

In culinary practice, silputusta is common for ingredients like onions, herbs, peppers, or meat that must be minced before cooking. Techniques range from a precise, fine mince achieved with a sharp knife to using a food processor or meat grinder when larger quantities are involved. The intended texture affects cooking times, moisture distribution, and flavor release, making the degree of mincing a deliberate part of recipe design.

From a cultural and linguistic standpoint, silputusta features in traditional and contemporary Finnish dishes, particularly in fillings for pastries, dumplings, or layered dishes where uniform texture is desired. The term is primarily used in Finnish-language culinary writing, recipes, and menus, and when translated for non-Finnish readers is often rendered as “minced” or “minced material.”

See also: silputus, silppu.