Finnish Rye and Root Vegetable Casserole
A hearty and rustic casserole featuring a base of cooked rye grains mixed with a medley of seasonal root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Baked until tender and slightly crisp on top, this dish is a flavorful and filling vegetarian option, often seasoned with herbs and a touch of cream.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked rye berries
- 2 medium Carrots, diced
- 2 medium Parsnips, diced
- 2 medium Potatoes, diced
- 1 medium Leek, thinly sliced
- 250 ml Vegetable broth
- 150 ml Heavy cream or oat cream
- 1 tbsp Fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp Fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Butter or oil for greasing
- 50 g Optional: Grated cheese for topping
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or oil.
💡 Tip: Ensure the baking dish is large enough to hold all ingredients without overflowing. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rye berries, diced carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and sliced leek.
💡 Tip: Cut the root vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking. - 3
Add the vegetable broth, heavy cream (or oat cream), chopped thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
💡 Tip: If using oat cream, ensure it's unsweetened. - 4
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
💡 Tip: Ensure the liquid covers most of the rye and vegetables. - 5
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, and if using, sprinkle the grated cheese over the top.
💡 Tip: Covering the dish during the initial baking helps to steam the vegetables and cook the rye through. - 6
Continue baking, uncovered, for another 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
💡 Tip: Check for tenderness with a fork; adjust baking time if needed. - 7
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve hot as a main course or a side dish.
💡 Tip: This casserole pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a side of lingonberry jam.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can substitute other root vegetables like rutabaga or celery root.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a mushroom broth instead of vegetable broth.
- ✓Ensure the rye berries are cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for extra depth of flavor.
- Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky note.
- For a vegan version, use oat cream and omit the cheese topping or use a vegan cheese alternative.