Viili

Viili is a traditional fermented milk product that is often classified as a yogurt. It has a mild flavor, and it can have a thick viscose texture or a creamy consistency, more similar to standard, commercially made yogurt varieties. Viili is usually made with cow milk, and it is a type of mesophilic heirloom culture—it ferments at room temperature, and the starter can be used indefinitely.

If the starter is provided, the process of production involves mixing the starter with milk and then allowing the combination to ferment at room temperature. The traditional form of viili is thick and stringy. Although it is nowadays mostly associated with Finland, it most likely originated in Sweden, where it is known as filbunke.

It was traditionally made by farmers, while the industrial production started in the 1950s. Viili is eaten on its own as a breakfast or a snack, usually mixed with cinnamon and sugar, but it also pairs well with granola, berries, honey, and jams.