Contents
A classic Finnish comfort dish made with sliced hot dogs or sausages simmered in a creamy tomato-mustard sauce. Perfect served over mashed or boiled potatoes, this nostalgic recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. Great for both kids and adults!
Equipment
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Large saucepan or frying pan
- Liquid measuring cup
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 edium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 package hot dogs or sausages
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp mustard (Dijon or Finnish-style preferred)
Instructions
- Dice the onion and slice the hot dogs or sausages into ½-inch pieces.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and sauté for 3–5 minutes until soft.
- Add the sliced hot dogs and cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste, allspice (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 more minutes to develop flavor.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring well.
- Gradually add water while whisking to avoid lumps. The mixture will thicken.
- Pour in the milk and mustard. Simmer for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot over mashed or boiled potatoes.
Notes
Looking for a comforting, budget-friendly, and delightfully nostalgic meal? Enter Nakkikastike, or Finnish Hot Dog Sauce — a beloved childhood classic in Finland that’s both quick to prepare and surprisingly delicious! 😋 Whether made with humble hot dogs or upgraded with gourmet sausages, this creamy tomato-based sauce is the ultimate weeknight dinner companion. Served over mashed or boiled potatoes, it’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to both kids and adults alike.🧰 Tools & Equipment You'll Need
- 🔪 Knife
- 🧱 Cutting board
- 🥄 Measuring cups & spoons
- 🍳 Large saucepan or frying pan
- 🧪 Liquid measuring cup
- 🍴 Whisk
- 🥄 Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
🛒 Ingredients for Finnish Hot Dog Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 package hot dogs or sausages (12–16 oz / 340–450 g)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice (optional but traditional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon mustard (preferably Finnish or Dijon-style)
👨🍳 How to Make Nakkikastike (Step-by-Step)
-
Prep the ingredients:
Dice the onion and slice the hot dogs into rounds or half-moons—about ½ inch thick works best. -
Sauté onions and sausages:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 3–5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Toss in the sliced hot dogs and cook until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. 🔥 -
Add flavor:
Stir in the tomato paste, allspice (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let everything cook together for 2–3 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly for a richer flavor. 🍅 -
Thicken the sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well. Slowly pour in the water while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. The sauce will thicken quickly. -
Finish with milk & mustard:
Add the milk (or half-and-half) and the mustard. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5–8 minutes, until thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. -
Taste & tweak:
Give it a final taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.
🍽️ How to Serve Finnish Hot Dog Sauce
The classic Finnish way to enjoy Nakkikastike is by pouring it generously over a plate of boiled or mashed potatoes 🥔. The soft, neutral potatoes soak up the savory, creamy sauce beautifully—creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Want to switch it up? Try serving it with:- Steamed rice 🍚
- Buttered noodles 🍝
- Rye bread on the side for dipping 🍞
🧊 Storing & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Upgrade your sausages: Use Finnish-style sausages like lenkkimakkara, or any high-quality smoked sausage for a more gourmet version.
- Add vegetables: Finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or peas can add color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: A dash of paprika or chili flakes brings a subtle kick if you like heat.
