Poronkäristys ja Perunamuusi
A classic Lappish dish of thinly sliced sautéed reindeer meat served with creamy mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam. This hearty meal is a staple in Northern Finland, perfect for cold weather.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Reindeer meat(thinly sliced, preferably from the leg or loin)
- 50 g Butter
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 200 ml Water or beef broth
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 kg Potatoes(starchy variety, peeled and quartered)
- 150 ml Milk(warm)
- 50 g Butter(for mashed potatoes)
- 0.5 tsp Salt(for mashed potatoes)
- to taste Lingonberry jam(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the mashed potatoes: Boil the peeled and quartered potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 2
Mash the potatoes with warm milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt.
- 3
For the reindeer: Heat 25g of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced reindeer meat and sauté quickly until browned on all sides. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 4
Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining 25g of butter to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Return the reindeer meat to the skillet. Pour in the water or beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the liquid has reduced to a sauce.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 6
Season the reindeer stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning carefully, as reindeer meat can be naturally salty. - 7
Serve the poronkäristys hot, alongside the creamy mashed potatoes and a generous spoonful of lingonberry jam.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using pre-sliced reindeer meat (often found frozen) can save prep time.
- ✓Don't overcook the reindeer meat; it should remain tender.
- ✓The lingonberry jam provides a crucial sweet and tart contrast to the rich meat.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes include a splash of dark beer or cream in the sauce for added richness.
- Pickled cucumbers can be served as a side for extra acidity.