Särä Surprise

Discover the Finnish Delicacy: Särä

Särä is a traditional Finnish dish that has been savored since the time of the Vikings. Originating from the Lemi region, it is considered one of the oldest dishes in Finland, cherished for its simplicity and rich flavors. Traditionally, särä is made using simple, high-quality ingredients that highlight the natural flavors of the meat and potatoes. It is slow-cooked to perfection in a wooden trough from where it gets its name, "särä," meaning "a wooden trough" or "dish" in Finnish.

Ingredients for Särä Surprise

• Lamb shoulder - 2 kg
• Potatoes - 1 kg
• Garlic - 5 cloves
• Rosemary - A few sprigs
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - To taste
• Black pepper - To taste

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by cleaning the lamb shoulder, making sure to remove any excess fat. Cut slits in the lamb and insert the garlic cloves. Rub the meat with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to enhance its flavors.

Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into thick slices and set them aside. This arrangement helps the potatoes absorb the delicious juices from the lamb during cooking.

Step 2: Arranging in the Dish

Lay the slices of potatoes on the bottom of a roasting dish, forming a layer that will soak up the juices. Place the seasoned lamb shoulder on top of this layer. Add the rosemary sprigs around the lamb, contributing an aromatic essence to the dish.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Slow Cooking the Särä

Cover the roasting dish with a lid or aluminum foil. Preheat your oven to 150°C (302°F). The key to perfect särä is slow cooking, so prepare for a journey of flavors as you cook the dish for about 5 to 7 hours. This extended cooking time allows the lamb to become tender, falling off the bone, while the potatoes soak up all the rich flavors.

Step 4: Check and Baste

Every 2 hours, check on your särä. If the meat looks dry, baste it with the juices from the dish. This basting ensures that the lamb remains succulent and flavorful.

Serving and Enjoying Särä Surprise

Once the särä is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making each bite juicier and more flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the särä with a side of fresh, crusty bread to soak up the juices.
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well, balancing the richness of the särä.
• For a traditional Finnish experience, serve with lingonberry sauce.

Lamb shoulder and potatoes come together to create a dish that celebrates Finnish culinary heritage, perfect for a cozy gathering or a special occasion meal. Enjoy your Särä Surprise with family and friends, embracing both history and flavor in every bite.