Kuivaliha

Kuivaliha, also known as kapaliha, is a cherished traditional treat from Northern Finland. This delicacy is made from salted and dried meat, often using reindeer. Much like jerky, kuivaliha is a preserved meat that's both lightweight and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal snack for outdoor adventures such as camping. It is also an ingredient in local dishes, such as kuivalihakeitto, a hearty soup.

To prepare kuivaliha, strips of salted meat are hung outdoors, typically facing south to maximize sun exposure. Netting is used to shield the meat from birds and other animals. The drying process takes about three weeks, usually occurring in March and April when Finnish springtime provides optimal weather conditions. These conditions include daytime temperatures above freezing, nighttime temperatures below freezing to keep insects away and aid in drying, along with dry winds and ample sunlight. If the weather isn't just right, the meat can either rot or suffer from freezer burn, making it crucial to prepare kuivaliha during the appropriate season.