A Finnish Winter Comfort Food Classic
A delicious, rich, and colorful comfort food from the North. Punajuurikiusaus, or beetroot temptation — a traditional Finnish casserole that’s every bit as beautiful as it is delicious, and truly as tempting as its name suggests.
This vibrant dish brings together earthy beetroots, tender potatoes, and creamy Aura blue cheese, all baked into a stunning pink casserole that feels rustic, elegant, and wonderfully dynamic. It’s simple and nourishing, yet surprisingly exquisite — perfect for anyone who loves Scandinavian flavors or wants to try something new, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
And if you’re a dancer — moving through long rehearsals, training hard, or simply trying to fuel your body with something wholesome — this dish is a dream. Punajuurikiusaus is an easy, 5‑ingredient Nordic comfort food that delivers both flavor and functional nutrition without hours in the kitchen.
With slow‑release carbohydrates, natural antioxidants, high‑quality protein, and creamy richness, this casserole supports energy, recovery, and overall well‑being, all wrapped in one vibrant pink bake. It’s cozy, indulgent, and deeply nourishing — exactly the kind of meal that keeps you going.
Whether you’re looking for a post‑rehearsal refuel, a nourishing lunch between classes, or a comforting dinner that won’t weigh you down, this Finnish classic fits beautifully into a dancer’s lifestyle
Ingredients
- 500 g raw beetroots, peeled and grated
- 300 g potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 medium onion, grated or finely chopped
- 2dl cooking cream
- 1 package of Aura blue cheese, crumbled
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Prepare the baking dish by greasing it with butter or oil. If you’re using baking paper, you can skip the greasing.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated beetroots, potatoes, and onion.
Season with salt, black pepper, and herbs if you choose to use them. - Add the crumbled Aura cheese.
- Pour in the cooking cream and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top has developed a lovely golden‑pink color. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
Punajuurikiusaus pairs beautifully with:
- Oven‑baked salmon
- A fresh green salad
- Pickled cucumbers
- A dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche
- Boiled buckwheat)
- With white bread
It also makes a wonderful vegetarian main dish on its own—hearty, colorful, and satisfying.
Aura Cheese
Aura cheese is a Finnish blue cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor. It melts beautifully and adds richness, depth, and a gentle blue‑cheese sharpness to any dish, which is why it works so well in comforting casseroles like Punajuurikiusaus.
Made from cow’s milk, Aura cheese is creamy yet slightly crumbly, and wonderfully easy to melt. It’s milder than strong blue cheeses like Roquefort and similar in style to Danish blue varieties. In Finland, it’s commonly sold in blocks or convenient crumbles, making it an effortless addition to both everyday cooking and special dishes.
Nutritional Benefits of the Main Ingredients
Aura Cheese:
- Provides high‑quality protein for muscle repair. Rich in calcium for strong bones and teeth. Contains vitamin B12, essential for energy and nerve health. Offers healthy fats that support nutrient absorption. Some varieties include probiotics that may benefit gut health
- High in folate, supporting cell growth and energy. Naturally rich in nitrates, which may improve blood flow. Packed with antioxidants (betalains) that help reduce inflammation. Good source of fiber for digestive health. Contains vitamin C for immunity and skin support
Potato:
- Excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Provides complex carbohydrates for steady, long‑lasting energy. Contains vitamin C and B vitamins. Offers fiber, especially if the skin is left on
Cooking Cream:
- Source of calcium for bone strength. Contains vitamin A, important for vision and skin. Provides fats that help absorb fat‑soluble vitamins
Why you'll love this dish
Beetroot casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something comforting, nourishing, and memorable. The natural sweetness of the beets, the creaminess of the sauce, and the rustic charm of the dish make it just right for a refueling lunch between classes or a cozy evening meal that won’t weigh you down. It’s the kind of food that supports movement, energy, and recovery while still feeling indulgent and deeply satisfying.
This Finnish classic brings a touch of Nordic warmth to your table, and if you’re looking for a dish that’s both beautiful and functional for an active lifestyle, this one truly delivers.