lihapaistos

Lihapaistos, literally meaning "meat bake" in Finnish, is a traditional baked meat dish in Finnish cuisine. It is a type of casserole or savory bake whose exact composition varies by region and family, but it generally combines meat with a starch such as potatoes or rice, along with onions, and a dairy component, then is baked until set.

Typical ingredients and variations: Most versions use minced or chopped pork or beef, or a mix of both. Potatoes—sliced or diced—or sometimes rice form the base; onions are commonly included, with mushrooms, carrots, or other vegetables occasionally added. The filling is bound with dairy such as cream, milk, or a mixture of eggs and sour cream, and seasoned with salt and pepper and herbs such as marjoram, thyme, dill, or parsley. Some recipes include a light topping of breadcrumbs or grated cheese.

Preparation: Meat is browned and onions sautéed, then layered with potatoes or rice in a casserole dish. A dairy mixture is poured over and the dish is baked in the oven, often for an hour or more, until the potatoes are tender and the top is lightly browned.

Serving and context: Lihapaistos is commonly served warm as a comforting everyday meal and pairs well with lingonberry sauce, pickles, or a simple salad. Because recipes vary, there is no single standard version, and families often adapt ingredients to what is available.