Kalakukko: Traditional Finnish Fish Pie

Ingredients

Rye flour

4 cups

Butter

1/2 cup, softened

Water

1 cup

Salt

1 teaspoon, plus more for seasoning

Bacon

1/2 pound, sliced

Whitefish fillets

1 pound

Onion

1 large, sliced

Black pepper

to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rye flour, softened butter, water, and a teaspoon of salt. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Line the greased baking dish with the rolled dough, ensuring it covers both the bottom and sides.
6. Place half of the bacon slices on the bottom of the dough. Layer half of the whitefish fillets on top of the bacon.
7. Spread half of the sliced onions over the fish, then season with salt and pepper.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining bacon, fish, onions, salt, and pepper.
9. Roll out the second portion of dough into a circle slightly larger than the baking dish.
10. Cover the filling with the second dough circle, pressing the edges together to seal. Cut a small hole in the center of the top crust to allow steam to escape.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
12. Allow the kalakukko to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this Finnish delicacy warm!