Indulge in the hearty flavors of Finland with this traditional dish, Karjalanpaisti. Originating from the Karelian region, Karjalanpaisti is a savory meat stew that embodies the essence of Finnish cuisine. Typically prepared with beef or lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, this slow-cooked delicacy is seasoned with aromatic spices, such as allspice and black peppercorns, creating a rich and comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings. Whether enjoyed with a side of rye bread or accompanied by lingonberry jam for a touch of sweetness, Karjalanpaisti is sure to transport you to the rustic kitchens of Finland with every delicious bite. Unlock the secrets of Finnish culinary tradition and treat yourself to the warmth and satisfaction of Karjalanpaisti today.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg (about 2.2 lbs) beef or pork, cut into cubes
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 onions, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 5-6 whole allspice berries
• 5-6 whole black peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• Water or beef broth
• Butter or oil for frying

Instructions:

1- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some butter or oil over medium heat.

2- Add the cubed meat to the pot and brown it on all sides. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.

3- Once the meat is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

4- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and sauté them until they are soft and translucent.

5- Return the browned meat to the pot with the onions.

6- Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot.

7- Place the bay leaves, allspice berries, and black peppercorns on top of the meat and vegetables.

8- Season everything with salt to taste.

9- Pour enough water or beef broth into the pot to just cover the meat and vegetables.

10- Bring the stew to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.

11- Cover the pot and let the stew cook slowly for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

12- Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

13- Serve the Karjalanpaisti hot, with crusty bread or mashed potatoes on the side.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Finnish dish with your family and friends!

Nutritional Values:

Beef (1 kg):Calories: Approximately 2500 kcal

• Protein: Approximately 200 grams
• Fat: Approximately 200 grams
• Carbohydrates: Negligible

benefits

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins (B12, niacin, B6), zinc, iron, and selenium, which support overall health and immune function.
• Provides essential amino acids necessary for various bodily functions.

Potatoes (4 large potatoes):Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

• Protein: Approximately 20 grams
• Fat: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 180 grams

benefits

• Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities and bodily functions.
• High in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety.
• Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, contributing to overall immune function, heart health, and nerve function.

Carrots (3 medium carrots):Calories: Approximately 100 kcal

• Protein: Approximately 2 grams
• Fat: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25 grams

benefits

• Excellent source of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in the body, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
• Rich in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
• Contains vitamin K1, potassium, and other antioxidants, contributing to overall heart health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Onions (2 medium onions):Calories: Approximately 100 kcal

• Protein: Approximately 2 grams
• Fat: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25 grams

benefits

• Contains flavonoids and sulfur compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
• Rich in vitamin C and prebiotic fibers, supporting immune function and promoting gut health.
• Contains quercetin, a plant compound with potential anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.

Bay leaves, allspice berries, black peppercorns, salt: Negligible in terms of caloric and macronutrient content.

It's important to note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods, specific cuts of meat, and variations in ingredient sizes. Additionally, the nutritional values provided here are for raw ingredients and may change slightly during the cooking process. If you require more precise nutritional information, it's recommended to use a nutrition calculator or consult a registered dietitian.