Difficulty:Moderate | Serves:6
Rustic, hearty, and packed with flavor—Kalakukko is Finland’s iconic fish-filled rye bread pie! 🐟🥖 Traditionally baked in a slow oven for hours, this dish features a dense rye crust encasing a flavorful filling of fish (often perch or salmon), pork, and seasonings. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, Kalakukko is a true Nordic delicacy, perfect for a nourishing meal on the go.
Ingredients For Kalakukko
🔥 For the Rye Dough:
☑ 3 cups rye flour 🌾
☑ 1 teaspoon🥄 salt 🧂
☑ ¾ cup water 💧
🔥 For the Filling:
☑ 1 lb (450g) fresh fish (perch, salmon, or vendace), cleaned and filleted 🐟
☑ ½ lb (225g) pork belly or bacon, diced 🥓
☑ ½ teaspoon🥄 salt 🧂
☑ ¼ teaspoon🥄 black pepper 🌿
👩🍳 Cooking Steps For Kalakukko
🔥 Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1️⃣ In a bowl, mix rye flour and salt.
2️⃣ Gradually add water and knead until a firm dough forms.
3️⃣ Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
🔥 Step 2: Assemble the Kalakukko
1️⃣ Roll out the dough into a large oval shape.
2️⃣ Layer fish fillets in the center, then add diced pork, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges tightly to form a loaf.
🔥 Step 3: Bake the Kalakukko
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15 minutes.
2️⃣ Reduce temperature to 250°F (120°C) and bake for 3–4 hours, basting occasionally with water to keep the crust from cracking.
🔥 Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
1️⃣ Let the Kalakukko cool slightly before slicing.
2️⃣ Serve warm with butter or cold as a traditional Finnish snack.
🐟 Hearty, wholesome, and deeply rooted in Finnish tradition—Kalakukko is a must-try Nordic delight! 🥖
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Truffle Honey Glazed Duck Breast You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.