portaatteja

Portaatteja is a Finnish term that can refer to several concepts, most commonly relating to alcoholic beverages or a type of snack. In the context of drinks, it refers to a shot, particularly a small serving of strong alcohol like vodka or schnapps, often consumed quickly. These are typically served in small glasses.

Beyond alcoholic shots, portaatteja can also describe a small, individual portion of food, often a pre-made appetizer or bite-sized snack. This usage is less common than the alcoholic beverage definition but is understood in certain culinary contexts. The etymology of the word is linked to the idea of a "small door" or "opening," perhaps suggesting a quick or small consumption.

The term is informal and widely used in everyday Finnish conversation. When ordering at a bar, asking for a portaatteja will generally result in a shot of the house spirit unless a specific type is requested. In social gatherings, small, individual food items served as appetizers might also be referred to as portaatteja, emphasizing their petite size and ease of consumption. The exact context usually clarifies whether a drink or a food item is being discussed.