Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Finland with the traditional dish, Poronkäristys. This delectable delicacy, originating from the indigenous Sami culture, features thinly sliced reindeer meat slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic spices and served alongside mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and pickles. Discover the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions of Finland as you indulge in this hearty and flavorful meal, cherished by locals and celebrated worldwide.

Ingredients:

• 500g reindeer meat, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Lingonberry sauce, to serve
• Mashed potatoes, to serve

Instructions:

1- Prepare the Reindeer Meat: If the reindeer meat is not already thinly sliced, use a sharp knife to cut it into thin slices. Ensure the slices are of uniform thickness for even cooking.

2- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

3- Cook the Reindeer Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the thinly sliced reindeer meat to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Allow it to sear and brown on one side for about 2-3 minutes, then flip the slices over to brown the other side.

4- Season the Meat: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary over the meat in the skillet. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

5- Deglaze the Pan: Pour the beef or vegetable broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add flavor to the dish.

6- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the meat simmer in the broth for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7- Finish with Cream: Once the meat is cooked through and the liquid has reduced slightly, pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce.

8- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the poronkäristys hot, alongside mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce. Enjoy this traditional Finnish dish with its rich flavors and hearty textures!

9- Optional Garnish: For added freshness and color, you can garnish the poronkäristys with chopped fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

Nutritional Values:

Reindeer Meat (500g):

• Calories: 770 kcal
• Protein: 122g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains iron and B vitamins, important for energy metabolism and blood health.

Butter (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 204 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Provides a source of healthy fats that are essential for brain function and hormone production.
• Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are important for various bodily functions.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits

• High in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health and digestion.

Garlic (2-3 cloves):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Known for its antimicrobial properties, helping to fight infections and support immune health.
• Contains sulfur compounds that may have cardiovascular benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Thyme, Dried Rosemary:

• Negligible caloric content when used in small quantities.

benefits

While used primarily for flavoring, herbs and spices also contain various antioxidants and phytonutrients that may offer health benefits.

Beef or Vegetable Broth (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 10-20 kcal (depending on the type and brand)
• Protein: 0-1g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Provides hydration and may contain minerals like potassium and magnesium.
• Can contribute to the flavor profile of the dish without adding significant calories.

Heavy Cream (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Source of energy-dense calories, providing fuel for the body.
• Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E, which are important for skin health, vision, and immune function.

Lingonberry Sauce:

• Nutritional values vary depending on the recipe or brand. Typically low in fat and protein but contain carbohydrates from the berries and added sugars.

benefits

• High in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin elasticity.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties and help regulate blood sugar levels.

Mashed Potatoes:

• Nutritional values vary depending on preparation method and ingredients. Typically, potatoes are rich in carbohydrates, with negligible fat and protein content.

benefits

• Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities and exercise.
• Contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, important for overall health and well-being.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as specific brands, cooking methods, and ingredient substitutions.