Because reindeer meat is so popular in Finland, there are many ways the Finns enjoy this special meat delicacy throughout their country. In Helsinki, reindeer meat is often prepared with spices and root vegetables. The Finns do not believe in putting sauce or marinades on the meat because the meat is already so flavorful! Reindeer meat can be added to many Finnish dishes including broths, soups, stews, roasts, steaks, sausages, salads and even pizza!
Reindeer meat is very tender and lean - which means that it is easy to bite into. It has a very distinct taste that many Finns find to be extremely tasty! Aside from hunting the reindeer, preparing the meat, and cooking it in various ways at home in the oven, some Finns enjoy buying already-prepared fresh reindeer meat already cooked in a reindeer stew! Delicious!
Reindeer have always been a part of the Finnish culture. Since many reindeer live in Lapland, the indigenous Sami people hunt reindeer all year round. Wild reindeer have been hunted for centuries. Eventually, animals were taken into captivity for hunting, and nowadays, they have become a Finnish food custom for Finns all around the country. Environmentally and economically, reindeer have traditionally been a part of the Finnish food consumption in all local markets. However, reindeer provide other products aside from just being hunted for meat. The animals also provide reindeer milk, fur and hides to make household items, and fur blankets, as well as nutritional value from their milk. It is safe to say that without reindeer, the Finnish culture would not be the same.
