| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 2 hours – 2 hours 30 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 653 | 34g | 12g | 44g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 6g | 52g | 2g |
Why I Love Finnish Karjalanpaistisalaatti
Every now and then I stumble upon a recipe that captures my heart and taste buds in a way few others have. The savory harmony of meat, vegetables, and aromatic herbs in the Finnish dish known as Karjalanpaistisalaatti is one such culinarian love story. This heartwarming stew, in all its robust flavor, will transport you to the tranquil landscapes of Finland, serving as a beautiful introduction to Finnish cuisine.
A Fusion of Flavours
While most of my cooking experiments are a meander through Louisiana’s Creole richness and my French ancestry’s elegance, the Karjalanpaistisalaatti offers an exciting detour. A potpourri of beef, pork, root vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs, it exhibits a distinct rustic charm, somewhat reminiscent of local Louisiana stews, while echoing the pared-down elegance of a French pot-au-feu. I have always reveled in the contrast and unity of flavors – and Karjalanpaistisalaatti, with each spoonful, offers just that.
Inspired by Masters
I owe my foray into Finnish cuisine to the world-renowned chef Mikko Kosonen. While I’ve never had the chance to work with him directly, his traditional Nordic recipes and passion for food are inspiring.
Mikko’s authentic Finnish recipes provided a splendid framework to craft my adaptation of Karjalanpaistisalaatti, perfect for sharing with readers seeking culinary adventures.
Pairing Karjalanpaistisalaatti With Other Dishes
If you’re wondering which dishes the Karjalanpaistisalaatti pairs nicely with, think hearty, wholesome fare. A crisp green salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. For dessert, my Louisiana-style Beignets or a classic French éclair will keep in tune with the international theme while offering a delightful sweet finish.
Every culinary adventure offers a new perspective on familiar ingredients, an opportunity to indulge in the vast expanse of global cuisine. This delightful Finnish stew, Karjalanpaistisalaatti, is no different. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do!
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of Beef Stew meat
- 2 pounds of Pork Stew meat
- 3 tablespoons Canola oil
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 3 Bay Leaves
- 8 Allspice Berries
- 4 cups Beef Stock
- 1 pound Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 Cup Carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 Cup Turnips, peeled and chopped
- 1 Cup Rutabaga, peeled and chopped
- 1 Tablespoon Chopped Fresh Dill
- 1 Tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley
Method
Step One
Take a large, heavy bottom pot over medium heat and add canola oil in it. Once the oil is warm, add the beef and pork stew meat, making sure the pieces don’t overlap. Lightly brown all sides of the pieces.
Step Two
Remove the meat pieces from the pot and set them aside keeping them warm. Now, in the same pot add finely chopped onions and cook them until they turn light translucent.
Step Three
Return the browned meat to the pot with onions. Add salt, black pepper, bay leaves, allspice berries and beef stock. Cover the pot and let it come to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 2.5 hours on medium low heat.
Step Four
While the meat is cooking, wash, peel and cube potatoes also chop the carrots, turnips and rutabaga. After 2.5 hours add all these to the pot, make sure the veggies are submerged in the stock, if not, add some more stock or water.
Step Five
Cover the pot again and cook for another hour until all vegetables are tender and cooked through.
Step Six
Before you remove the pot from the heat, check for any seasoning, add more salt or pepper according to taste.
Step Seven
Finally garnish your dish with chopped fresh dill and parsley. Your hearty and delicious Karjalanpaistisalaatti is ready to serve!
Note : Do not eat the whole spices like bay leaves and allspice berries, they are only for flavours.
