Lapland, is such a beautiful area of the world, spanning Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. It is often associated with hearty meat dishes, particularly reindeer and fish. However, it also boasts a surprising range of vegetarian options inspired by its remote environment and rich culinary traditions. We have enjoyed a number of trips to Lapland with kids and love being there. It’s one of our favourite places. There is always so much great food to try too. From forest-foraged ingredients to local spins on international classics, vegetarian food in Lapland is a celebration of simplicity, freshness, and flavour. Find our guide on the best vegetarian food to try in Lapland below.
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Table of Contents
1. Traditional Lappish vegetarian dishes
Mushroom soup
Lapland’s forests are rich in wild mushrooms like chanterelles and porcini. Mushroom soup is a popular starter, made creamy with locally sourced dairy and seasoned with herbs like thyme. It’s hearty and comforting, perfect for cold Lappish winters. It’s one of my favourite Lapland foods.
Lapland-style potato pancakes
Known locally as “perunarieskat,” these potato-based pancakes are a delicious vegetarian treat. Traditionally served with lingonberry jam and sour cream, they offer a sweet-and-savoury flavour that’s irresistible.
Rieska
A flatbread made from barley or rye flour, rieska is often served with butter or local cheeses. It pairs wonderfully with soups or as a base for toppings like foraged herbs and wild berries.
2. Foraged ingredients and nature-inspired flavours
Wild berry delights
Lapland is famous for its wild berries, including cloudberries, lingonberries, and bilberries. These are used in desserts, jams, and as garnishes for salads and mains. Cloudberry jam on rye bread or bilberries baked into pies are must-try treats.
Herbal infusions and teas
Foraged herbs such as meadowsweet and nettle are used in teas and broths. These herbal infusions are not only delicious but also have traditional medicinal benefits, making them a unique Lappish experience.
Forest mushrooms and vegetables
From sautéed chanterelles to marinated wild herbs, the forest plays a significant role in Lapland’s vegetarian cuisine. Many restaurants offer creative dishes incorporating locally foraged ingredients.
3. Vegetarian adaptations of Lappish classics
Vegetarian stews
Lappish stews, often made with reindeer or fish, are easily adapted to vegetarian versions. Root vegetables like turnips, carrots, and parsnips, along with lentils or beans, form the base for these hearty and flavourful dishes.
Vegetarian pyttipannu
Pyttipannu, a traditional Scandinavian hash, is typically made with diced meat and potatoes. The vegetarian version uses roasted root vegetables, mushrooms, and onions, topped with fried eggs.
Cheese-based delights
Lapland’s dairy industry is renowned for its high-quality cheeses. Try “leipäjuusto,” a squeaky cheese often served warm with cloudberry jam, or locally made goat cheese paired with rye bread.
4. Modern vegetarian cuisine in Lapland
Creative Salads
Lapland restaurants offer inventive salads featuring ingredients like pickled vegetables, wild herbs, and smoked cheeses. A salad with bilberries, walnuts, and goat cheese is a common find.
Vegetarian Pizza with Local Ingredients
Many restaurants in Lapland now feature vegetarian pizzas, topped with chanterelles, cloudberries, and local cheeses. These pizzas offer a fusion of international and local flavours.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
Lapland is increasingly catering to diverse dietary preferences, with many restaurants offering vegan soups, gluten-free bread, and plant-based adaptations of classic dishes. We always found a great selection of vegan options.
5. Vegetarian-Friendly Destinations in Lapland
Rovaniemi
The capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi, offers numerous vegetarian-friendly cafes and restaurants. Highlights include:
- Restaurant Nili: Traditional Lappish cuisine with vegetarian adaptations.
- Cafe Kauppayhtiö: Trendy vegan and vegetarian options.
- Arctic Restaurant: Features foraged ingredients in innovative vegetarian dishes.
Levi
Levi, a popular ski destination, boasts several restaurants with vegetarian menus:
- Tuikku: Mountain-top dining with vegetarian stews and local cheeses.
- Kekäle: A modern bistro offering plant-based options alongside traditional favourites.
Inari
Known for its Sami culture, Inari has eateries showcasing foraged and vegetarian-friendly meals:
- Hotel Kultahovi: Features local ingredients in vegetarian dishes.
- Anar Restaurant: A fine-dining experience focusing on sustainability.
6. Vegetarian Street Food and Cafes – food to try in Lapland
Rye Bread Sandwiches
Available at cafes and markets, rye bread sandwiches are typically filled with cheese, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Rye crackers are also particularly tasty.
Vegetarian Pasties
Traditional Finnish pasties like “karjalanpiirakka” (Karelian pies) are often vegetarian. Filled with rice or potato, they are an easy snack.
Berry Smoothies and Juices
Lapland’s cafes often serve freshly made berry smoothies and juices, packed with vitamins and flavour.
7. Desserts and Sweet Treats – The best vegetarian food to try in Lapland
Cloudberry Tart
This tart showcases the unique tart-sweet flavour of cloudberries, often paired with whipped cream. I adore cloudberries, they’re one of my favourite berries.
Bilberry Pie
Bilberry pies, made with buttery crusts and fresh bilberries, are a staple dessert in Lapland.
Lingonberry Sorbet
A refreshing treat made from lingonberries, sugar, and water, perfect after a hearty meal.
8. Cooking Vegetarian in Lapland
Market Ingredients
Local markets are dotted across Lapland and often sell fresh produce, berries, and artisanal cheeses. These ingredients are perfect for preparing vegetarian meals at home or if you have self catering accommodation.
Cooking Classes
Join a Lappish cooking class to learn how to create vegetarian dishes using local ingredients like mushrooms, berries, and herbs.
9. Vegetarian Lappish recipes to try at home
We love cooking. upsome of the recipes from our travels. The following is one of our recipes and we will be adding more to this list as we go –
Vegan lingonberry doughnuts recipe
Lapland offers a rich and diverse vegetarian dining experience, from traditional dishes to modern interpretations. Whether you’re foraging wild berries, enjoying vegetarian stews, or dining in top restaurants, the region caters beautifully to plant-based diets. For families, adventurers, and food enthusiasts, Lapland’s vegetarian cuisine is a delightful journey into the heart of Nordic culinary traditions.
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