piikteitä

piikteitä is a Finnish term that translates to "pickles" or "gherkins" in English. It generally refers to small, pickled cucumbers. These pickled cucumbers are a common accompaniment to various dishes in Finnish cuisine and are also enjoyed as a snack.

The pickling process for piikteitä typically involves submerging cucumbers in a brine solution, which usually contains vinegar, water, salt, sugar, and various spices. Common spices used include dill, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and sometimes garlic or bay leaves. The fermentation or brining process preserves the cucumbers and imparts a characteristic sour, salty, and often slightly sweet flavor.

Piikteitä are widely available in Finnish supermarkets and are also homemade by many households. They can be found in jars or plastic containers, often immersed in their pickling liquid. Their versatility makes them a popular addition to sandwiches, salads, and as a side dish for traditional Finnish meals such as meatballs or roasted potatoes. The crisp texture and tangy taste of piikteitä are highly valued.