Rieska

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: Finnish

Rieska is a traditional Finnish flatbread with a hearty whole grain flavor, perfect for breakfast or snack, suited for those who enjoy simple, rustic baked goods.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • Dash of salt
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat, rye, barley or oatmeal flour
  • 1 1/2 cups white flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons melted oleo

Instructions

  1. Dough is very soft. Put a lot of flour on a cookie sheet. Knead until it holds together.
  2. Form the dough into an oval shape and prick it with a fork.
  3. Bake in a preheated oven at 375° to 400° for about 30 minutes or until brown on the bottom.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more robust flavor, consider using a mix of whole wheat and rye flour. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar. When kneading, be generous with the flour to prevent sticking. Remember that the dough should remain soft, so avoid over-kneading. Serve your rieska warm for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Rieska is best served warm, slathered with butter or alongside soups and stews. It pairs beautifully with Nutty Cheese Bites or any hearty dish. You can also use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches, topped with your favorite spreads or cheeses. Consider serving it with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftover rieska, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture. You can keep it at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place it in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rieska contains roughly 345 calories, with 19g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (140% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2092mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).

345 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19g 38% DV
Total Fat 8.3g 11% DV
Carbs 81.1g 29% DV
Fiber 39.3g 100% DV
Sugar 4.8g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2092.4mg 91% DV
Potassium 1268.2mg 27% DV
Cholesterol 15.3mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 56.7mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 1.2mcg 6% DV
Calcium 268.4mg 21% DV
Iron 10.6mg 59% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours such as spelt or a gluten-free blend if necessary. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may slightly change. Whole grain flours will add more nuttiness, while white flour will give a lighter texture.

How can I tell when the rieska is done baking?

The rieska is ready when it is golden brown on the bottom and sounds hollow when tapped. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 190°F. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

Can I freeze rieska for later use?

Absolutely! To freeze, let the rieska cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →