What does Santa Claus eat? Forget cookies and milk! Santa stays fit and jolly with Finnish favorites. Here’s his Top 10 dishes – no reindeer included!
Cover photo: Santa Claus Foundation © Visit Finland
Ever wondered what fuels Santa Claus during his busiest season? Forget cookies and milk – Santa’s diet is all about staying fit, energetic, and, well… jolly! One thing’s for sure though: Santa doesn’t eat reindeer! His trusty reindeer are his friends and colleagues, not dinner.
Here are Top 10 dishes that keep Santa Claus in top shape and ready to spread joy.
1. Joulupuuro (Christmas Porridge)
2. Lapland’s Fresh Berries
3. Loimulohi (Flame-Grilled Salmon)
4. Uuniperuna (Baked Potato)
5. Leipäjuusto with Cloudberry Jam
6. Joulusima (Christmas Mead)
7. Glögi (Mulled Wine)
8. Chanterelles & Porcini Mushrooms
9. Nokipannukahvi & Berry Tea
10. Marjakisseli (Berry Kissel)
Photo: Fiskars Finland, Mindre.fi © My Helsinki
You can’t beat a classic! This creamy rice porridge, often topped with cinnamon, sugar, and a pat of butter, is Santa’s go-to comfort food. Plus, there’s usually an almond hidden inside for good luck – or to surprise an elf!
Photo: Anne Nygård on Unsplash
Santa’s sweet tooth meets nature’s superfoods! Fresh lingonberries, cloudberries, and blueberries keep him loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and just enough natural sugar to keep up with all those cookies later.
Photo: Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos Rovaniemi Lapland Finland Kota restaurant © Visit Finland
Santa knows the power of Omega-3! This traditional Finnish delicacy, slow-cooked by an open fire, gives Santa the energy he needs to lift all those heavy sacks of presents.
Photo: Alex Crosbie on Unsplash
Carbs are fuel, and Santa is no stranger to a hearty baked potato. Load it up with some butter, cheese, or herbs, and it’s a simple but satisfying meal.
Photo: Soili Jussila © Visit Finland
Also known as “Finnish squeaky cheese,” leipäjuusto is a salty, chewy treat that pairs perfectly with cloudberry jam. It’s the perfect combo of savory and sweet to keep Santa happy.
A fizzy, slightly sweet, homemade drink that’s perfect for the holidays! Made with lemon, sugar, honey, and a touch of yeast, it’s a festive sip to keep Santa refreshed during his breaks.
Photo: Julia Kivelä © Visit Finland
Nothing warms Santa’s heart (and hands) like a hot cup of glögi. Spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, this classic Nordic winter drink is perfect for cold nights at the North Pole. Add some almonds and raisins for an extra treat!
Photo: Nick Grappone on Unsplash
Santa loves a good mushroom sauce or soup made with freshly foraged chanterelles and porcini mushrooms. Whether as a creamy gravy over potatoes or in a hearty soup, these earthy delights are a perfect addition to his winter menu.
Photo: Julia Kivelä @ Visit Finland
Santa never says no to a cup of strong, sooty campfire coffee brewed over an open flame, or a soothing berry-infused tea. These drinks keep him warm, alert, and ready for his long journey around the world.
This sweet, slightly tart berry dessert is a favorite of Santa’s. Made from a mix of berries and thickened with potato starch, marjakisseli can be enjoyed warm or cold – a perfect way to end a hearty meal.
