One dish that can be made from reindeer meat is the traditional Norwegian finnbiff, which features the flavorful and tender meat of shredded reindeer, known as reinskav. This dish is a true delight for the taste buds and is often enjoyed with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors.
To prepare finnbiff, the shredded reindeer meat is typically cooked in a rich and savory sauce, which is made by combining ingredients such as onions, mushrooms, and beef broth. The meat is seared to lock in its natural juices and then simmered in the sauce until it becomes tender and succulent.
One of the key ingredients that adds a unique touch to finnbiff is sweet brown goat cheese. This cheese, if available, is added to the sauce during the cooking process, creating a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors that perfectly complement the reindeer meat. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding a creamy and slightly tangy taste to the dish.
To serve finnbiff, it is traditionally accompanied by lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes. Lingonberry jam provides a sweet and slightly tart contrast to the rich flavors of the stew, while mashed potatoes serve as a comforting and hearty base for the dish. The combination of the tender reindeer meat, flavorful sauce, lingonberry jam, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a truly satisfying and delicious meal.
As a sommelier and brewer, I would recommend pairing finnbiff with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines have robust flavors and tannins that can stand up to the rich and bold flavors of the stew. Additionally, the earthy and fruity notes in these wines complement the gamey taste of the reindeer meat.
For beer lovers, a dark and malty beer, such as a porter or stout, would be an excellent choice to accompany finnbiff. The roasted flavors and smooth texture of these beers can enhance the richness of the dish and provide a harmonious pairing.
Finnbiff is a delicious dish that showcases the flavors of shredded reindeer meat. With its savory sauce, sweet brown goat cheese, lingonberry jam, and mashed potatoes, it offers a delightful combination of tastes and textures. Whether enjoyed with a glass of red wine or a dark beer, finnbiff is a true culinary delight that is sure to satisfy any meat lover's palate.