uunipesä

Uunipesä is a Finnish term that translates to "oven nest" or "oven bed." It refers to the nesting or bedding material placed within a wood-fired oven, particularly in traditional Finnish baking practices. This bedding is typically made of rye straw or other suitable plant material.

The purpose of the uunipesä is to provide a soft, insulating layer that protects baked goods, such as traditional rye bread (ruisleipä), from direct contact with the hot oven floor. This prevents the bread from burning on the bottom while ensuring even cooking and a desirable crust. The straw also helps to absorb excess moisture, contributing to a crisper texture.

When preparing to bake, the uunipesä is carefully arranged in the preheated oven. The dough is then placed directly on top of this straw layer. After baking, the uunipesä is removed along with the baked goods. This method is particularly associated with the traditional baking of large loaves of rye bread, a staple in Finnish cuisine. While modern ovens have largely replaced wood-fired ovens for everyday use, the uunipesä remains a significant element in preserving traditional baking techniques and recipes. Its use is often seen in cultural heritage sites, demonstrations, and by those who practice traditional Finnish cooking.