Step into the culinary world of Finland with our savory Aland Maksalaatikko recipe, a traditional Finnish dish that delights the taste buds with its rich and comforting flavors. Maksalaatikko, also known as liver casserole, is a dish that has deep roots in Finnish cuisine, particularly in the Åland Islands. This hearty recipe combines the earthy goodness of liver with the creamy texture of rice, creating a dish that is both wholesome and delicious. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the steps to recreate this Finnish classic in your own kitchen, bringing the authentic taste of Aland Maksalaatikko to your dining table. Get ready to savor a symphony of flavors that pay homage to the unique gastronomic heritage of Finland.

Here's a recipe for Aland Maksalaatikko:

Ingredients:

• 500g beef or pork liver, finely chopped
• 1 cup rice, uncooked
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs
• 4 cups milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish
• Lingonberry sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).

Prepare Rice: Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.

Sauté Onions and Liver: In a pan, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the finely chopped liver and cook until the liver is browned. Season with salt, white pepper, allspice, and ginger. Allow it to cool.

Mix Eggs and Milk: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and the liver-onion mixture. Pour in the egg and milk mixture, and mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Grease Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter.

Bake: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Serve: Allow the Aland Maksalaatikko to cool slightly before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve warm with lingonberry sauce on the side if desired.

Enjoy: Enjoy this comforting Finnish dish that brings together the richness of liver, the creaminess of rice, and a blend of spices. It's a true taste of tradition from the Åland Islands!

This Aland Maksalaatikko recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family, and it's sure to become a beloved dish in your repertoire.

Nutritional Values:

Providing precise nutritional values can be challenging as they can vary based on factors such as specific brands, preparation methods, and variations in ingredient sizes. However, I can give you a general idea of the nutritional content of the main ingredients in your Aland Maksalaatikko recipe:

Beef or Pork Liver (500g):

• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
• Protein: Around 75g
• Fat: About 20g
• Iron: A significant amount

benefits:

• Excellent source of iron, which is crucial for red blood cell formation and oxygen transport in the body.
• Rich in high-quality protein, supporting muscle health and overall body function.
• Contains essential vitamins such as B12 and folate, contributing to energy metabolism.

Rice (1 cup, uncooked):

• Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Around 45g
• Protein: About 4g

benefits:

• Good source of complex carbohydrates, providing a sustained release of energy.
• Contains essential minerals such as manganese, which plays a role in bone development and wound healing.
• A moderate source of fiber, promoting digestive health.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: Approximately 45 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Around 11g
• Fiber: About 3g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects.
• Contains prebiotics that support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
• Provides vitamins C and B6, contributing to immune function and metabolism.

Eggs (2):

• Calories: Approximately 140 kcal
• Protein: Around 12g
• Fat: About 9g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in choline, which is important for brain health and development.
• Contains various essential nutrients, including vitamins B12 and D.

Milk (4 cups):

• Calories: Approximately 600 kcal
• Protein: Around 32g
• Fat: About 32g

benefits:

• Excellent source of calcium, crucial for bone health and development.
• Provides vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption and supports immune function.
• Good source of high-quality protein, promoting muscle and tissue health.

Salt (1.5 teaspoons):

• Sodium content: Around 3,000 mg

benefits:

• Essential for maintaining proper fluid balance in the body.
• Contains sodium, which is necessary for nerve function and muscle contraction.

White Pepper (1/2 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content
• Small amounts of minerals

benefits:

• May have antioxidant properties.
• Can aid digestion and promote gut health.

Allspice (1/2 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content
• Small amounts of minerals

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants that may help combat oxidative stress.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginger (1/2 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content
• Small amounts of minerals

benefits:

• Known for its anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with potential health benefits.

Butter (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
• Fat: About 22g

benefits:

• Provides a source of healthy fats, including saturated fats in moderation.
• Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A and E, important for vision and skin health.

Note: The nutritional values provided here are estimates and can vary based on specific product brands and variations in ingredient sizes. Additionally, the lingonberry sauce's nutritional content would depend on the specific brand and recipe used. It's advisable to check the nutrition labels of specific products for more accurate information.