Lappish Cooking Master Class

Experience Finnish Cuisine with the Lappish Cooking Master Class

If you’re visiting Rovaniemi and craving a taste of authentic Finnish cooking, the Lappish Cooking Master Class offers a charming, hands-on experience just a short drive outside the city. Priced at $156.12 per person and lasting about two hours, this small-group session (max eight guests) takes you to a cozy cottage, where you’ll learn the secrets of making lohikeitto, Finland’s beloved salmon soup.

What we love about this experience is how it combines culture with practical skills—your hosts are welcoming and genuine, and the setting is truly picturesque, with views across two lakes. Plus, the emphasis on local, home-cooked dishes means you’ll get a taste of everyday Finnish life, not just tourist staples.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a fast-paced culinary adventure or a large-group class, this might not be your scene. The focus on a single dish means it’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, authentic experience rather than a quick, high-energy class. Overall, if you’re a foodie who appreciates craftsmanship and local flavor, this class will suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic Finnish cuisine: Learn to prepare traditional salmon soup, a staple in Finnish households.
• Small-group setting: Personal attention from hosts makes for a more intimate and engaging experience.
• Beautiful location: The cottage on Tahtamalmapi lake offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Practical skills: Walk away with a recipe and confidence to make lohikeitto at home.
• Cultural insight: Gain a glimpse into everyday life in Lapland through food and hospitality.
• Ideal for food lovers: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, immersive taste of Finland’s culinary traditions.

What’s Included and How It Works

This experience begins with convenient pickup from your Rovaniemi hotel, making it easy to transition from sightseeing to a cozy culinary adventure. The journey to the cottage takes about 30 minutes, providing a scenic drive through the Finnish countryside. You’ll arrive at a tranquil household where your hosts, Andrey and Darya, will welcome you into their home—an authentic setting that feels more like visiting friends than a typical tourist activity.

Once settled, the class takes place inside the cottage, where you’ll learn hands-on how to prepare lohikeitto, a traditional salmon soup known for its hearty yet healthy qualities. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks. The instructors emphasize the dish’s versatility—it’s suitable for busy weekdays and family gatherings—and they teach you the techniques to replicate it at home.

The Route and Setting

The cottage is located in a peaceful area between two lakes—an ideal backdrop for such a culinary session. From the reviews, it’s clear that the stunning views and the chance to be in a calm, natural environment enhance the whole experience. The drive itself is a highlight, with guides often sharing fun facts about Finnish culture and lifestyle.

Cooking and Learning Experience

During the class, you’ll be actively involved in preparing salmon, potatoes, onions, and cream—key ingredients for the lohikeitto. The hosts are praised for their welcoming demeanor and patience, making sure everyone feels comfortable regardless of cooking skill level. As one guest said, “Our host was truly amazing and very welcoming,” which reflects how personal and engaging the session is.

The soup itself is described as delicious, simple, and quick to prepare. Several reviews mention how tasty it was, with some even eager to try the recipe back home. One guest noted, “Cannot wait to try the recipe at home,” highlighting the practical value of the class.

Tasting and Cultural Insights

After cooking, everyone gathers around to sample the freshly made soup, offering a real sense of sharing a meal in a Finnish family home. This communal aspect makes the experience more meaningful, turning it into a memorable cultural exchange. You’ll also likely learn a little about Finnish dining habits and the importance of local ingredients in their cuisine.

Group Size and Flexibility

The class only hosts up to eight travelers, ensuring plenty of opportunity for questions and personal attention. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere where you can comfortably ask about Finnish food, culture, or even the best ways to enjoy Lapland’s other culinary delights.

Price and Value

At just over $150, this experience offers good value for those interested in authentic, hands-on culinary travel. You’re not just watching a demonstration; you’re actively involved in making a local dish in a cozy setting. Plus, the included transportation and the chance to take home the recipe add practical value to your trip.

This class is ideal for foodies seeking an authentic connection to Finnish culture. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group interactions, want a relaxing activity after sightseeing, or are eager to learn a simple yet traditional recipe. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery and a genuine, homely atmosphere.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy cooking or cultural activities, this class offers a meaningful way to bond while tasting hearty, local cuisine. However, if you’re in a hurry or prefer large, impersonal classes, you might want to consider other options.

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, including pickup, cooking, and tasting.
• Meeting Time: 3:00 pm
• Location: 30-minute drive from Rovaniemi to a cottage on Tahtamalmapi lake.
• Group Size: Max 8 travelers
• Price: $156.12 per person
• Includes: Pickup, instruction, tasting, and recipe handout
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Is transportation included? Yes, your hosts provide pickup from your hotel in Rovaniemi, making the process seamless.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience, including travel, is around two hours.

Can I participate if I don’t cook often? Absolutely. The recipe is straightforward, and the hosts are welcoming, making it suitable for all skill levels.

What is the main dish I will learn to prepare? You’ll learn to make lohikeitto, a traditional Finnish salmon soup.

Is the setting scenic? Yes, the cottage is located in a peaceful area between two lakes, offering beautiful views and a calm atmosphere.

Is this experience suitable for families? While it’s designed for small groups, families with children who enjoy cooking and nature should find it enjoyable.

What is the cost and what does it include? The price is $156.12 per person, covering transportation, instruction, the cooking session, tasting, and the recipe.

Final Thoughts

The Lappish Cooking Master Class provides a genuine taste of Finnish home cooking set against a serene lake backdrop. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local culture, learn an easy but delicious recipe, and enjoy a peaceful setting away from the busy streets of Rovaniemi.

For travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, small-group interactions, and the chance to cook with locals, this class offers both enjoyment and practical skills. The beautiful scenery, welcoming hosts, and tasty dish make it a memorable addition to any Lapland itinerary.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic, and tasty way to explore Finnish life, this cooking class deserves a spot on your list. It’s especially well-suited for food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting to enjoy a cozy, scenic afternoon in the Finnish countryside.