Karjalanpiirakka - Finnish Rice and Rye Pastry

Ingredients

• For the crust: For the crust:
• 1 cup (120g) rye flour 1 cup (120g) rye flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) wheat flour 1/2 cup (60g) wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 cup (200g) cooked rice 1 cup (200g) cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the rye flour, wheat flour, and salt for the crust. Gradually add warm water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix the cooked rice, melted butter, salt, and ground nutmeg for the filling. Set aside.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin oval or rectangular shape.
5. 5.
   Spoon a generous amount of the rice filling onto the center of each dough piece, leaving the edges free.
6. 6.
   Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a border. Press the edges lightly to seal.
7. 7.
   Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rye flour — Ensure you are using finely ground rye flour for a smoother texture in the crust.
• Cooked rice — Use short-grain rice for a creamier filling.
• Ground nutmeg — Freshly grated nutmeg can be used instead of ground nutmeg for a more intense flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, brush the pastries with beaten egg before baking.
• Serve Karjalanpiirakka warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• These pastries can be made in advance and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
• Experiment with different fillings such as mashed potatoes or carrot puree for a variation in flavors.
• Sprinkle some chopped fresh dill or parsley on top of the pastries for added freshness.

Serving advice

Serve Karjalanpiirakka as a delightful appetizer or snack. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Pair them with a dollop of sour cream or lingonberry jam for a traditional Finnish touch.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Karjalanpiirakka neatly on a serving platter, showcasing their golden-brown crusts. Consider adding a small Finnish flag toothpick to each pastry for a festive touch. Serve them alongside a bowl of lingonberry jam for an authentic Finnish presentation.