Pork belly in brown gravy

Läskisoosi, or pork belly in brown gravy, is a traditional Finnish dish made from salted or smoked pork, slow-cooked until tender in a savory brown sauce.

Though simple in ingredients, it delivers rich flavor and a velvety, melt-in-the-mouth texture - creamy in feel, yet cream-free.

While Americans might label it a stew due to the visible chunks of meat, its smooth, sauce-like consistency and role as a pour-over accompaniment make “gravy” the more fitting term. Typically served with boiled potatoes and pickled beetroot, läskisoosi embodies the comforting soul of Finnish home cooking and rustic northern traditions.

The name läskisoosi is likely borrowed from the Swedish word fläsksås. The cultural significance and healthfulness of pork in Finland was emphasized as early as the 16th century by Mikael Agricola, the father of written Finnish and bishop of Turku, although the word läskisoosi itself is of later origin.

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Wine pairings

While beer (like a malty lager or a dark ale) is a classic match for läskisoosi, there are some excellent wine options too — both red and white — that can complement its rich, savory character.

The key is to find a wine with good acidity and moderate alcohol, to balance the fat and salt without clashing with the dish’s mellow, meaty flavors.

Chilling a light red like Zweigelt - just slightly - really sharpens the acidity and makes it lively against the richness of something like läskisoosi. That subtle spice and red cherry profile meets the fat like a handshake: friendly, firm, and familiar.

Food friendly pairings

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Burgenland Zweigelt

Why this wine match?