Indulge in the hearty flavors of Finnish cuisine with Maksalaatikko, a traditional dish cherished for its comforting taste and rich cultural heritage. Maksalaatikko, translated as "Liver Casserole," is a savory delight that combines tender liver, aromatic rice, and a blend of spices, all baked to perfection. Often enjoyed during festive occasions or cozy family dinners, this dish embodies the warmth and hospitality of Finnish cooking. With its creamy texture and subtle yet satisfying flavors, Maksalaatikko offers a unique culinary experience that captures the essence of Finland's culinary tradition. Whether you're exploring Finnish cuisine or seeking a comforting meal, Maksalaatikko promises to delight your taste buds and evoke the spirit of Finnish gastronomy.

Ingredients:

• 500g minced liver (pork or beef liver)
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Butter or oil for greasing the baking dish

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil and set it aside.

2- Rinse the rice under cold water and cook it according to the package instructions until it's just slightly undercooked. Drain any excess water and set the rice aside to cool.

3- In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced liver, cooked rice, chopped onion, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

4- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

6- Once cooked, remove the Maksalaatikko from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

7- Serve the Maksalaatikko warm, either as a main dish or as part of a larger Finnish meal. It pairs well with lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Finnish Maksalaatikko!

Nutritional Values:

Minced Liver (500g):

• Calories: 660 kcal
• Protein: 85g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Cholesterol: 900mg
• Iron: 14mg

benefits

• Rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• High in iron, important for red blood cell production and preventing anemia.
• Good source of vitamin A, which is crucial for vision health and immune function.

Uncooked Rice (1 cup):

• Calories: 205 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits

• Provides carbohydrates, the body's main source of energy.
• Contains small amounts of protein, important for tissue repair and growth.
• Low in fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Contains flavonoids that may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
• Good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production.

Eggs (2 large):

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.
• Rich in choline, important for brain health and development.
• Provide essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.

Milk (2 cups):

• Calories: 244 kcal
• Protein: 16g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

benefits

• Excellent source of calcium, crucial for bone health and muscle function.
• Contains vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium and supports immune function.
• Provides high-quality protein, important for building and repairing tissues.

Salt, Pepper, Allspice, Cloves, Nutmeg (1 tsp each):

• Calories: negligible
• Protein: negligible
• Fat: negligible
• Carbohydrates: negligible

benefits

• Enhance the flavor of dishes, making them more palatable and enjoyable.
• Some spices, like cloves and nutmeg, contain antioxidants that may offer health benefits.
• Used in moderation, they can contribute to a balanced diet without adding significant calories or nutrients.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, specific ingredients used, and cooking methods. Additionally, these values are per serving and may not account for variations in serving sizes.