I have an embarrassing confession to make. As my silky smooth flight – with Finn Air via Toronto – was approximately two hours away from landing in Helsinki, I was overcome by an insatiable craving. My upcoming itinerary in Finland would catapult me into a nonstop cycle of adventure activities including kayaking, boating, horseback riding, cycling and hiking; however, it wasn’t the adrenaline rush activities that were consuming my mind. What I couldn’t get out of my head was this mad craving (salivating Pavlovian dogs had nothing on me) desire to get my hands (okay, more so my mouth) on Salmiakki.

Fun Facts About Salmiakki

Oh, salmiakki, the “delightful” Finnish candy that has everyone talking. Here are some “fun” facts about this “unique” treat:

1. Salmiakki is made by adding ammonium chloride to licorice candy, because why not ruin perfectly good candy with a chemical that’s also used in fertilizer and cleaning products?
2. Salmiakki is a popular treat in Finland, Sweden, and the Netherlands, because clearly those countries have nothing better to offer in terms of sweets.
3. In Finland, salmiakki is often used as a flavoring in other foods and drinks, because apparently, nothing tastes better than the flavor of salty cough medicine in your ice cream or chocolate.
4. Some people describe the taste of salmiakki as similar to that of cough medicine, because who doesn’t love the taste of medicine when they’re trying to satisfy their sweet tooth?
5. Salmiakki is often used as a natural remedy for sore throats and coughs, because clearly, swallowing a spoonful of sugar or honey is just too mainstream.
6. Salmiakki is sometimes used as a prank in Finland, where unsuspecting foreigners are offered the candy without any warning of its unusual taste, because nothing says “welcome to our country” like tricking people into eating something that tastes like salty poison.
7. Salmiakki is not recommended for people with high blood pressure, because apparently, putting your health at risk for the sake of trying a “delightful” candy is totally worth it.

So, there you have it. Salmiakki, the candy that’s sure to leave you with a bitter taste in your mouth and a puzzled expression on your face.

Canadian who loves Salmiakki!

Salmiakki? What the heck is that?

It’s licorice descended from the depths of heaven Finland. Now, I know exactly what pasta lovers mean when they talk about visiting Italy and upon returning home proclaiming all packaged store bought pasta tastes like cardboard. That’s the way I now feel about ‘normal’ licorice. Anyhow, I’ve been avoiding the question – what exactly is this stuff? Salmiakki, is an extremely astringent black salty licorice that is adored in Finland (and other Nordic countries) that literally comes in all shapes, sizes and range of products. Although it is most common in candy form you can also eat Salmiakki chocolate, gobble Salmiakki ice cream and down shots of Salmiakki infused alcohol to your heart’s content.

Having first sampled Salmiakki one year ago it was love at first bite. I ate as much as I could while briefly in Finland and brought home a few packs – to our then – base in Chiang Mai, Thailand. However, those lasted mere days and then I ran out. And I waited and waited and waited some more hoping to find a pack of this magical Finnish licorice in some kind of specialty import store as I continued my travels in Asia. No luck. One year without a morsel of it. Not even a bite. Enough to drive a sane man crazy.

My Reaction To Try It

I must preface that my reaction to this candy is extremely unusual for foreigners trying it for the first time. Audrey, couldn’t spit it out fast enough. The Super Salmiakki candy she first popped into her mouth, apparently deriving its name because of its potency, instead could have easily been ‘super’ for its velocity that it projectiled out of her mouth. It’s the kind of polarizing food item that you either absolutely love or absolutely loathe. There is no sitting on the fence with this one.

Anyhow, you must be wondering at this point – did I get my fix? Well, let me tell you something straight up. I’ve got my priorities in order. After a long Transatlantic flight I freshened up, brushed my teeth and put a comb through my hair. Okay, who is kidding who, I did none of that. I rushed into the nearest convenience store in the Helsinki International Airport, located a package of Fazer Salmiakki mixed bag, and proceeded to empty the bag on the bus ride into the city center.

a video of us taste testing Salmiakki products in our hotel room in Helsinki, Finland

How can you experience Salmiakki products for the first time?

Here is a list of all the Salmiakki products I’ve taste tested:

Salmiakki Products I’ve Tried

Super Salmiakki: The cream of the Salmiakki crop. This potent form of Salmiakki is exceptionally salty and comes in candy form.

Mix Bag Salmiakki: All shapes and sizes of Salmiakki ranging from larger pieces that are more chewy to those that are smaller and harder.

Salmiakki in a small box: This is your best bet for when you get a craving driving, biking or walking as it comes in pocket-sized form.

Salmiakki Ice Cream: One of my personal favorites! This diamond shaped ice cream is the best of both worlds as you get the strong salmiakki taste in tandem with the sweet creaminess of ice cream.

Foreigners taste testing Salmiakki for the first time (priceless reactions)

Salmiakki Milk Chocolate: My absolute favorite. Imagine a delicious rich European milk chocolate bar infused with Salmiakki.

Salmiakki Liqueur (Finnish: Salmiakkikossu): essentially vodka with Salmiakki flavoring. Great for doing shots 😉

I highly recommend the local Finnish brand Fazer (pronounced properly as Fat-Zer) which is known for its creamy European style milk chocolate bars. Fazer does it all – Salmiakki candies, chocolate bars and ice cream bars – and in my opinion is consistently the best tasting of any brand I’ve yet to try for Salmiakki products.

Fascinating History Of Salmiakki

Salmiakki, also known as salmiak or ammonium chloride, is a quintessential part of Finnish culture with a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. This unique candy’s name comes from the Latin “sal ammoniacus,” meaning the “salt of Ammon.” A peculiar name, you might think, but it leads us back to the origins of this substance in the temples of the ancient Egyptian god Ammon.

The substance we now know as salmiak was first discovered in the form of small crystals near the temple of Jupiter Ammon in what is now Libya. The Romans, who referred to these crystals as the “salt of Ammon,” used it for medicinal purposes. During the Middle Ages, the substance was rediscovered by alchemists in their search for the philosopher’s stone and was named “sal ammoniac.” However, it wasn’t until the industrial revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries that ammonium chloride began to be produced on a larger scale, primarily for use in dry cell batteries and as a cough suppressant.

The Salty Love of Northern Europe

Turning our attention to Northern Europe, particularly Scandinavia and Finland, we find the region’s unique love for all things salty. Salmiakki, in the context of this area’s cuisine, is a type of salty licorice flavored with ammonium chloride. The history of licorice, an ingredient in salmiakki, traces back to ancient times. It was used by Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks for its medicinal properties, mainly for treating stomach ailments and respiratory problems.

However, the journey of transforming this licorice into the distinctive candy known as salmiakki didn’t start until the 1930s. Licorice had been a popular candy in Finland and other parts of Europe for quite some time, but it wasn’t until companies like Fazer and Halva began to experiment with flavor profiles that the idea of adding ammonium chloride came about.

Salmiakki was initially marketed as a throat soother and cough medicine due to its main ingredient, ammonium chloride. Early salmiakki was usually sold in pharmacies, and people appreciated it for its health benefits. As time went on, the potential for salmiakki as a sweet treat began to be explored, leading to its current status as a beloved candy in Finland and other Nordic countries.

During the 1970s, salmiakki became hugely popular in Finland. Fazer, a leading confectionery company, had been producing salmiakki candies since the 1930s. However, the 70s marked the introduction of Salmiakki Fazer, a diamond-shaped candy that soon became a household name in Finland. It was during this period that the use of ammonium chloride in confectionery expanded, and new varieties of salmiakki sweets emerged, such as pastilles, chocolates, and ice cream.

source: Samuel and Audrey on YouTube

Salmiakki: A Cultural Phenomenon

Over the years, salmiakki has become a cultural phenomenon in Finland and other Nordic countries. Its strong, salty taste, while initially a deterrent for some, has led to its iconic status among traditional Finnish sweets. While the flavor profile might be intense for the uninitiated, its popularity among the Finns is undeniable, leading to salmiakki being used in various forms of confectionery and even alcoholic beverages, such as the notorious Salmiakkikossu.

The presence of salmiakki extended beyond Finland’s borders and became popular in countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands. Each country has its unique versions of salmiakki, and it’s common to see a variety of products beyond candy, such as salmiakki ice cream, liqueur, and even salmiakki flavored potato chips.

Salmiakki has also sparked controversy over the years. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the European Union sought to ban the candy due to its ammonium chloride content. This proposed ban triggered a strong reaction from the Finnish public, leading to the so-called “Salmiakki War.” The EU eventually allowed the production and consumption of salmiakki to continue, acknowledging its cultural significance in the region.

Modern Day Celebrations and Recognition

In recent years, salmiakki has been used in food festivals and competitions, celebrating the unique flavor and cultural importance of this peculiar candy. There’s even a Salmiakki Society in Finland dedicated to promoting and appreciating this distinct Finnish delicacy.

From its humble beginnings as a cough suppressant to its current status as a cultural icon, the history of salmiakki is a testament to Finland’s innovative spirit and love for unique flavors. The journey of salmiakki through centuries and cultures is as fascinating as its flavor is bold, and it will continue to be a significant part of Finnish identity for years to come.

What Else Can You Try With Salmiakki?

1. Salmiakki candy – a salty black licorice candy that is popular in Finland.
2. Salmiakki chocolate – a chocolate bar with a salty and slightly bitter taste, similar to dark chocolate.
3. Salmiakki ice cream – a creamy ice cream with a salty licorice flavor.
4. Salmiakki cake – a cake flavored with salmiakki, often topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.
5. Salmiakki liqueur – a strong alcoholic drink with a salty licorice flavor.
6. Salmiakki vodka – a type of vodka that is flavored with salmiakki.
7. Salmiakki gin – a type of gin that is flavored with salmiakki.
8. Salmiakki beer – a type of beer with a salty and slightly bitter flavor.
9. Salmiakki soda – a soft drink with a salty and sweet taste.
10. Salmiakki chips – potato chips flavored with salmiakki.
11. Salmiakki popcorn – popcorn with a salty licorice flavor.
12. Salmiakki peanuts – roasted peanuts with a salty licorice coating.
13. Salmiakki licorice – a type of licorice candy with a salty flavor.
14. Salmiakki mints – small, round mints with a salty and refreshing taste.
15. Salmiakki gum – chewing gum with a salty and slightly bitter flavor.

Salty Liquorice To Try In Northern Europe Aside From Salmiakki

Northern Europe’s love for salty liquorice, or ‘salmiak,’ extends well beyond Finland’s famous salmiakki. The Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, as well as the Netherlands, also have a penchant for this distinctive treat. Below are some examples of unique and flavorful salty liquorices that you should try if you find yourself in Northern Europe.

1. Djungelvrål (Sweden)

Djungelvrål, or “Jungle Roar,” is a popular salty liquorice candy in Sweden. Produced by the Malaco company, these small, black, monkey-shaped sweets pack a potent punch of salty flavour thanks to the salmiak powder they’re coated in. Although they can be an acquired taste for some, Djungelvrål has an enthusiastic following among lovers of salty liquorice in Sweden and beyond. They’re a must-try for anyone wishing to explore the vast landscape of Scandinavian salty liquorice.

2. Tyrkisk Peber (Denmark)

Tyrkisk Peber, meaning “Turkish Pepper,” is a Danish product that has also found its way into other Nordic countries. Produced by Fazer, a Finnish confectionery company, these candies are famous for their strong, fiery flavour. Inside a hard shell of salty liquorice, there’s a blend of salmiak and hot pepper powder, creating a spicy, salty, and sweet combination that’s sure to leave an impression. The candy’s name is derived from the historic association of liquorice with Turkey, one of the countries where the liquorice root was originally harvested.

3. Lakrisal (Sweden)

Another beloved product from the Malaco company, Lakrisal, is a type of salty liquorice candy that comes in the form of small, compact discs. This candy has a softer texture compared to some other types of liquorice, and its shape and size make it perfect for casual snacking. Lakrisal is also free of gelatin and fat, making it a popular choice for those with dietary restrictions.

4. Salt Sild (Denmark)

Salt Sild, or “salty herring” in Danish, is a popular candy that truly embodies Denmark’s love for salty liquorice. These small, fish-shaped candies are generously coated with a layer of salmiak salt, providing a robust flavour. Manufactured by Toms, a Danish chocolate and candy company, Salt Sild is a favourite among Danes and has been a traditional treat for decades.

5. Dubbel Zout (The Netherlands)

Moving from Scandinavia to the Netherlands, one salty liquorice product stands out: Dubbel Zout, or “double salt.” Produced by DZ, these disc-shaped candies are not for the faint of heart; they’re known for their extremely strong salty liquorice flavour. Dubbel Zout is a favourite among those who appreciate a robust, intense flavour in their candy.

6. Lakrisbåtar (Sweden)

Literally translating to “liquorice boats,” Lakrisbåtar is a soft, salty-sweet liquorice candy shaped like small boats. Manufactured by Grahn’s Konfektyr, a Swedish company that specializes in liquorice products, these candies are loved for their fun shape and balanced flavour profile, making them a more accessible introduction to the world of salty liquorice.

7. BonBon Salte Fisk (Denmark)

BonBon’s Salte Fisk, or “salty fish,” is another Danish candy that showcases the country’s affection for herring-shaped liquorice candies. With a chewy texture and strong salmiak flavour, Salte Fisk is sure to please fans of salty liquorice.

8. Zwart Wit Zout (The Netherlands)

This Dutch treat, whose name translates to “Black White Salt,” is a hard salty liquorice candy with a salmiak powder center. Zwart Wit Zout is manufactured by several Dutch companies and has a unique, layered taste experience that starts with a hard exterior and ends with a powdery, salty-sweet interior.

Each of these candies has its unique twist on the salty liquorice theme, providing an array of flavours and experiences for those who are willing to explore this distinctive branch of Northern European cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned salty liquorice lover or a curious newcomer, there’s no shortage of interesting and delicious treats to discover.

source: Samuel and Audrey on YouTube

If You Like Salmiakki Hear Other Other Finnish Snacks To Try!

Hey there! If you’re a fan of salmiakki and looking for some other Finnish treats to try, I’ve got a few recommendations for you:

1. Fazer Mignon Chocolate Eggs – These chocolate eggs are filled with a variety of creamy flavors, including salmiakki. They’re a popular Easter treat in Finland and definitely worth a try.
2. Fazer Tyrkisk Peber – This candy is similar to salmiakki, but it also has a spicy kick from the addition of chili pepper. If you’re into spicy and salty flavors, this candy is definitely worth a taste.
3. Panda Soft Licorice – This brand of Finnish licorice comes in a variety of flavors, including salmiakki. It’s got a softer texture than traditional salmiakki candy, which some people prefer.
4. Fazer Liqueur Fills – These are chocolate candies filled with a variety of liqueur flavors, including salmiakki liqueur. They’re a popular treat for adults, so be sure to indulge responsibly!
5. Halva Finnish Licorice – This licorice candy has a sweeter taste than traditional salmiakki, but it still has a salty edge. It comes in a variety of flavors, including strawberry and raspberry, so you can mix things up a bit.
6. Fazer Marianne – These are chocolate-covered mint candies that are popular in Finland. They have a crunchy center and a refreshing mint flavor.
7. Sisu Pastilles – These are small, hard candies with a strong licorice flavor. They’re made with natural flavors and are perfect for freshening your breath.

More Delicious Finnish Snacks

1. Fazer Dumle – These are soft, chewy toffee candies covered in milk chocolate. They’re a popular treat in Finland and come in a variety of flavors, including licorice and coffee.
2. Fazer Geisha – These are chocolate-covered hazelnut truffles that are incredibly creamy and delicious. They’re one of Finland’s most popular candy exports.
3. Salmiakki Koskenkorva – This is a popular Finnish liqueur made with salmiakki (salty licorice) flavoring. It’s definitely an acquired taste, but if you’re a fan of salmiakki, it’s worth a try!
4. Kismet – This is a popular Finnish candy bar made with milk chocolate, toffee, and hazelnuts. It’s chewy, crunchy, and delicious.
5. Fazer Pihlaja – This is a candy bar made with dark chocolate and pihlaja berries (also known as rowanberries). It has a slightly tart flavor that pairs well with the dark chocolate.
6. Panda Raspberry Licorice – If you’re not a fan of the strong licorice flavor of traditional salmiakki candy, Panda Raspberry Licorice might be more your speed. It’s a soft and chewy candy with a sweet raspberry flavor.
7. Tupla – This is a classic Finnish candy bar made with milk chocolate, toffee, and almonds. It’s been around since the 1960s and is still popular today.
8. Fazer Skolekridt – These are chalk-shaped candies with a crunchy shell and a soft licorice filling. They’re a fun and unique treat to try.

You should be able to find these treats in Finland, but if you’re not in the country, some specialty stores might carry them. Give them a try and let me know what you think!

An Ode To This Finnish Delight

Salmiakki, oh salmiakki, Some love you, some think you’re wacky. Your salty taste is quite unique, Some people think you’re quite a treat.

But others, oh they cannot stand, The taste of salt in candy land. To them you’re just a bitter pill, A flavor that they cannot thrill.

But those who love you, they’ll defend, Their favorite candy ’til the end. They’ll pop you in their mouths with glee, And savor every salty spree.

So salmiakki, you polarize, Some people love you, others despise. But no matter where you stand on taste, You’ll always have a special place.

In Finland, you’re a national treat, A candy that just can’t be beat. So love it or hate it, one thing’s for sure, Salmiakki, you’re quite the allure.

Now here is the part I’m most curious about – do you like licorice? Have you tried Salmiakki before? Would you eat it? On a dare? Let me know about your experiences in the comment section below.