Embark on a culinary journey to the picturesque landscapes of the Åland Islands with a classic Finnish recipe that embodies the rich cultural heritage of the region - Aland Karjalanpiirakat. These delectable pastries, also known as Karelian pasties, are a cherished part of Finnish cuisine, celebrated for their thin, flaky crust and flavorful fillings. In this culinary adventure, we'll guide you through the art of crafting these traditional delicacies, inviting you to experience the unique blend of simplicity and sophistication that defines Aland Karjalanpiirakat. Let's delve into the heartwarming tradition and flavors that make these Finnish pastries an irresistible treat for both locals and culinary enthusiasts around the world.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rye flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Rice Filling:

• 1 cup short-grain rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• Salt to taste

For the Potato Filling:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup milk

Egg Butter:

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: a. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rye flour, and salt. b. Gradually add warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft, elastic dough forms. c. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

2. Make the Rice Filling: a. Rinse the rice under cold water. b. In a saucepan, bring water and rice to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender. c. Add milk and salt to the rice, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Potato Filling: a. In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes with butter, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.

4. Shape the Pies: a. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). b. Divide the dough into small balls, rolling each into a thin, round disc on a floured surface. c. Spoon the rice or potato filling onto the center of each disc, leaving the edges free. d. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, crimping the edges to seal the pie.

5. Bake the Pies: a. Place the shaped pies on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Prepare the Egg Butter: a. Mix chopped hard-boiled eggs with softened butter until well combined.

7. Serve: a. Once the pies are baked, allow them to cool slightly. b. Top each pie with a dollop of egg butter.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Aland Karjalanpiirakat, a delightful taste of Finnish tradition! Serve these pies warm and savor the unique combination of crisp crust and flavorful fillings.

Nutritional Values:

It's important to note that nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and types of ingredients used. However, here are approximate nutritional values for the listed ingredients per serving:

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour:

• 800 calories
• 4g protein
• 160g carbohydrates
• 0g fat

benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy and a small amount of protein.

1/2 cup rye flour:

• 260 calories
• 8g protein
• 56g carbohydrates
• 1.5g fat

benefits: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals; may help regulate blood sugar levels.

1 cup warm water:

• 0 calories

benefits: Essential for hydrating the dough and facilitating gluten formation.

1/4 cup vegetable oil:

• 480 calories
• 0g protein
• 0g carbohydrates
• 56g fat

benefits: Adds fat to the dough, contributing to its texture and flavor.

1 teaspoon salt:

• 0 calories

benefits: Enhances the flavor of the dough and regulates yeast activity.

For the Rice Filling:

1 cup short-grain rice:

• 200 calories
• 4g protein
• 44g carbohydrates
• 0g fat

benefits: A good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and a small amount of protein.

2 cups water:

• 0 calories

benefits: Essential for cooking the rice.

1 cup milk:

• 80 calories
• 4g protein
• 12g carbohydrates
• 2.5g fat

benefits: Adds creaminess and contributes to the overall texture of the filling.

Salt to taste:

• 0 calories

benefits: Essential for cooking the rice.

For the Potato Filling:

4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed

• 400 calories
• 8g protein
• 88g carbohydrates
• 0g fat

benefits: Rich in carbohydrates, potassium, and dietary fiber.

2 tablespoons butter:

• 200 calories
• 0g protein
• 0g carbohydrates
• 22g fat

benefits: Rich in carbohydrates, potassium, and dietary fiber.

Salt and pepper to taste:

• 0 calories

1/4 cup milk:

• 20 calories
• 1g protein
• 2g carbohydrates
• 1g fat

benefits: Enhances the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.

For the Egg Butter:

2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped:

• 140 calories
• 12g protein
• 1g carbohydrates
• 10g fat

benefits: High in protein, vitamins, and minerals.

2 tablespoons butter, softened:

• 200 calories
• 0g protein
• 0g carbohydrates
• 22g fat

benefits: Adds richness and flavor to the egg mixture.

Please keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific product brands and preparation methods. Additionally, serving sizes may affect the overall nutritional content.