Indulge in the rustic flavors of Finland with Kalakukko, a traditional dish deeply rooted in Finnish culture. This savory pie-like delicacy encapsulates the essence of Finnish cuisine, blending locally sourced ingredients with time-honored culinary techniques. Dive into the rich history behind Kalakukko, which translates to "fish rooster," as it was traditionally baked in the shape of a rooster to be enjoyed during special occasions and festivals. Learn about the meticulous preparation process, where fish, typically perch or salmon, is encased within a rye flour crust along with pork belly and bacon, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Join us on a culinary journey through Finland's lush landscapes and discover why Kalakukko holds a cherished place in Finnish hearts and palates alike.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 500g rye flour
• 250g wheat flour
• 200g butter
• 2 tsp salt
• About 2 dl cold water

For the Filling:

• 500g fish fillets (perch, salmon, or trout)
• 500g pork belly
• 200g bacon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1- Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rye flour, wheat flour, and salt. Cut the butter into small pieces and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.

2- Gradually add cold water to the mixture, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

3- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).

4- Prepare the filling by slicing the fish fillets, pork belly, and bacon into thin slices. Season each layer with salt and pepper to taste.

5- Roll out the larger portion of dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Line the bottom and sides of a greased baking dish with the rolled-out dough, leaving some overhang.

6- Layer the pork belly slices on the bottom of the dough-lined dish, followed by a layer of bacon slices, and then the fish fillet slices. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper as desired.

7- Roll out the remaining dough to create a lid for the Kalakukko. Place it over the filling and seal the edges by crimping them together with the overhanging dough from the bottom crust. Make a few small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

8- Bake the Kalakukko in the preheated oven for about 2-3 hours, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.

9- Once baked, allow the Kalakukko to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy this traditional Finnish delicacy warm or at room temperature, accompanied by your favorite side dishes or enjoyed on its own.

Nutritional Values:

Rye Flour (per 100g):

• Calories: 338 kcal
• Protein: 8.4g
• Carbohydrates: 75g
• Fat: 1.6g
• Fiber: 15g

benefits

• Rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps in weight management.
• Contains essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism and overall health.

Wheat Flour (per 100g):

• Calories: 364 kcal
• Protein: 10.3g
• Carbohydrates: 76.3g
• Fat: 1.2g
• Fiber: 2.7g

benefits

• Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• Contains some protein and fiber, contributing to satiety and digestive health.

Butter (per 100g):

• Calories: 717 kcal
• Protein: 0.9g
• Carbohydrates: 0.1g
• Fat: 81g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Provides a source of healthy fats, including saturated and monounsaturated fats, which are important for brain function, hormone production, and vitamin absorption.
• Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are important for various bodily functions, including immune health and bone health.

Fish Fillets (salmon, per 100g):

• Calories: 208 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 13.4g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body.

Pork Belly (per 100g):

• Calories: 518 kcal
• Protein: 11.3g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 52.4g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Provides a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, zinc, and selenium, which support various metabolic processes and immune function.

Bacon (per 100g):

• Calories: 541 kcal
• Protein: 37g
• Carbohydrates: 0.6g
• Fat: 42g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Contains protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in fat, which can provide satiety and flavor to dishes, but should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific type and brand of ingredients used, as well as any variations in preparation methods. It's always a good idea to check the nutritional information on the packaging of your specific ingredients for the most accurate values.