tomaatinkastike
Tomaatinkastike is a Finnish term that literally means “tomato sauce” and refers to a versatile, thickened tomato-based condiment used in a wide variety of Finnish dishes. It is typically prepared by simmering tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a small amount of stock or stock cubes until the mixture reduces and thickens. A denominator of salt, pepper and sometimes sugar or carrots is added to balance acidity, and the sauce can be seasoned with herbs such as basil, oregano or thyme. Dairy or plant‑based milks can be incorporated to create a creamy variation, while a pinch of paprika or smoked paprika may also be used for depth of flavor. The consistency is similar to that of a slow‑cooked tomato sauce, but it tends to be smoother and less chunky than many Western tomato sauces.
In Finnish cuisine tomaatinkastike serves many roles. It is a common accompaniment to boiled meats such as
The history of tomaatinkastike is intertwined with the importation of tomatoes to Finland in the late 18th