Finnish Carrot Casserole, known locally as Porkkanalaatikko, is a traditional and beloved dish often found on Finnish Christmas tables. This comforting casserole combines the humble goodness of carrots 🥕 and rice 🍚, bound together with creamy milk 🥛 and eggs 🥚, creating a heartwarming side dish that pairs perfectly with baked ham or holiday roasts. While traditionally enjoyed during Christmas, this nourishing casserole is so versatile that it can easily become a cozy weeknight dinner or a delicious vegetarian main course. Its mildly sweet and savory flavors make it a true Scandinavian comfort food classic.

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🛠 Tools & Equipment You'll Need

To prepare this wholesome Finnish Carrot Casserole, gather the following kitchen essentials:

• ✅ Small casserole dish or baking dish
• ✅ Large and small mixing bowls
• ✅ Small saucepan (for cooking rice)
• ✅ Grater (for fresh carrots)
• ✅ Measuring cups and spoons
• ✅ Liquid measuring cup
• ✅ Wooden spoon or spatula

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📝 Ingredients for Porkkanalaatikko

Here's everything needed to create this delicious carrot casserole:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (Jasmine, Arborio, or any medium/short grain rice will do)
• 3-4 large carrots, grated (raw for texture, or cooked & pureed for smoothness)
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp dried thyme leaves (optional, for a savory twist)
• ¼ tsp ground white pepper (or black pepper as a substitute)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups whole milk (or half & half for extra creaminess)

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ½ cup bread crumbs or cracker crumbs (Club crackers work wonderfully)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Finnish Carrot Casserole (Step-by-Step)

1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a small casserole dish and set it aside.

2️⃣ Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, grated carrots, salt, thyme, pepper, beaten eggs, and milk. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3️⃣ Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.

4️⃣ Prepare the Crunchy Topping

While the casserole is baking, melt 2 tbsp of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the bread or cracker crumbs until they’re well coated.

5️⃣ Finish Baking with Topping

After the initial 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the buttery crumb mixture over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.

6️⃣ Rest & Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the casserole to finish setting for the perfect sliceable texture. Serve warm and enjoy this heartwarming Finnish classic! ❄️✨

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🥄 Variations & Alternatives

➡️ Texture Option: Carrot Puree

For a smoother texture, substitute grated carrots with carrot puree. Simply boil peeled carrots until tender, allow to cool slightly, then blend into a smooth puree before mixing with the rice and other ingredients.

➡️ Authentic Sweet Version

To make Porkkanalaatikko the traditional sweet way:

• Omit the pepper and thyme.
• Add 1 tsp to 1 tbsp brown sugar, dark syrup, or honey.
• For a festive flavor, sprinkle in ¼ tsp ground nutmeg.

This sweetened version is more dessert-like and stays true to Finnish holiday traditions. 🎄

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🧡 Why You'll Love Porkkanalaatikko

• ✅ Simple & wholesome ingredients
• ✅ Perfect for holiday feasts or cozy dinners
• ✅ Easily adaptable (sweet or savory)
• ✅ Great as a vegetarian main or hearty side
• ✅ Freezer-friendly & make-ahead friendly

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🌿 Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly grated carrots for a pleasant texture.
• Adjust sweetness to personal preference.
• Half & half gives an ultra-creamy consistency.
• Let the casserole rest after baking for a firmer texture.
• Serve with baked ham, roasted vegetables, or enjoy as a stand-alone dish.