härkän

Härkän is a term that can refer to several things, most commonly a type of Finnish rye bread or a historical term related to taxation. In the context of food, Härkän is a traditional Finnish rye bread known for its dense texture and dark color. It is often made with a sourdough starter and baked for a long period, resulting in a hearty and flavorful loaf. This bread is a staple in Finnish cuisine and is typically served with butter, cheese, or various toppings.

Historically, "härkän" was also a form of tax or tribute in medieval Finland. This tax was often paid in cattle, hence the name, which is derived from the Finnish word "härkä," meaning ox or bull. The specific nature and implementation of the härkän tax varied over time and by region. It was a significant part of the economic and social structure of the time, reflecting the importance of livestock in the agrarian society of medieval Finland.

The modern understanding of "härkän" is more likely to be associated with the rye bread, as it remains a part of contemporary Finnish culinary traditions. The historical tax is primarily of interest to historians studying medieval Finnish society and economy.