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How to Make Authentic Finnish Karjalanpiirakka with Rice Filling

Discover the art of making traditional Finnish Karjalanpiirakka, a beloved pastry with a crisp rye crust and creamy rice filling. This recipe brings a taste of Finland to your kitchen, offering a unique blend of textures and flavors that's both comforting and exotic.

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Recipe Details

Prep Time

45 minutes

Cook Time

1 hour

Servings

8 pasties

Difficulty

Intermediate

Simple Summary

Karjalanpiirakka is a traditional Finnish pastry featuring a thin rye crust filled with creamy rice, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors that's perfect for any time of day.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Servings: 8 pasties
  • Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • 1/2 cup (100g) short-grain rice
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (120g) rye flour
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup (60g) butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Start with the rice filling: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.

  2. Add the milk and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the rice. Stir and continue cooking uncovered on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is creamy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.

  3. For the dough, mix rye flour, all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl.

  4. Add 1/4 cup water and 2 tablespoons oil to the flour mixture. Knead until you have a smooth, pliable dough. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

  5. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  6. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a thin oval, about 6 inches (15 cm) long.

  7. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cooled rice filling in the center of each oval. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching to create a boat-like shape.

  8. Place the pasties on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the edges are crisp and lightly browned.

  9. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter. Serve warm.

Chef's Notes

  • For an authentic touch, serve with egg butter: mix 2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped) with 1/4 cup softened butter.
  • You can substitute pearl barley for rice for a different texture.
  • These pasties freeze well. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free oat flour instead of rye flour.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (1 pastry): Approximately 200 calories, 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 7g fat. Rich in B vitamins from the rye flour and calcium from the milk-based filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Karjalanpiirakka warm as a hearty breakfast or snack. They pair wonderfully with smoked salmon, a side of cucumber salad, or simply with butter. For a complete Finnish experience, enjoy with a cup of strong coffee or lingonberry juice.