Minnesota culinary legend knighted by Finland

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the Minneapolis skyline, a sense of anticipation filled the air at FinnFest USA. Among the crowd, Bea Ojakangas, a culinary icon from Minnesota, stood nervously, her heart racing as she approached the podium. "I was just hoping I wouldn’t fall over," she later recalled, a hint of humor punctuating her moment of honor. In September, Ojakangas was officially inducted as a Knight of the Order of the White Rose, a prestigious accolade bestowed upon her for her lifelong dedication to Finnish cuisine and culture.

What Happened

The Order of the White Rose, one of Finland's highest honors, was established in 1919 by Gustaf Mannerheim, a key figure in Finland's military history and former president. This recognition is not typically awarded to non-Finnish citizens, making Ojakangas’ achievement particularly remarkable. "It’s kind of overwhelming," she admitted, reflecting on her journey as a cookbook author and culinary ambassador. Her first book, The Finnish Cookbook, published in 1964, opened the door to Finnish gastronomy in America, and over the decades, she has published more than 30 cookbooks.

Ojakangas was honored during FinnFest, an event that celebrates Finnish culture and heritage. The festival, which began in 1983 and resumed in Duluth after a pandemic hiatus, serves as a bridge connecting Americans with the Nordic world. Its president, Marianne Wargelin, emphasized that the festival transcends mere ethnic celebration, encompassing music, dance, history, literature, and, of course, food. FinnFest not only showcases traditional Finnish culture but also encourages dialogue and exchange between various cultures, enriching the community fabric.

Recognition from the Community

The nomination process for Ojakangas was no small feat. Ashley Lund, an adviser at the Finnish embassy in Washington, D.C., explained that the nomination letter was meticulously crafted, working its way through various levels of approval before reaching its conclusion. Lund, who grew up using Ojakangas’ recipes, expressed her admiration for the culinary legend. "She’s just a truly good person. There couldn’t be a more deserving person. She’s iconic," Lund stated, encapsulating the sentiment shared by many in the community.

Elaine Kumpula, the honorary consul who nominated Ojakangas, shared that writing the nomination letter was a joy. "In Beatrice’s case, it’s really been over a lifetime of things that she’s done," Kumpula noted, highlighting Ojakangas’ commitment to preserving Finnish culinary traditions. Kumpula believes that Ojakangas’ work has ensured that cherished recipes are not lost to time, allowing future generations to experience the comfort of Finnish cuisine. Her efforts have not only kept recipes alive but have also fostered a sense of pride among Finnish Americans, who see their heritage reflected in Ojakangas’ work.

Community Reaction

The news of Ojakangas’ knighthood was met with widespread acclaim. Community members and festival attendees alike expressed their pride in her achievement. Ojakangas’ son, Greg, reflected on his mother’s legacy, stating, "She loves her family. She’s an amazing mom, always has been." He acknowledged the significance of her work, noting that many of her cookbooks remain in print, a testament to their enduring relevance. Greg, who has witnessed his mother’s dedication firsthand, emphasized the impact she has had on his own culinary journey, often experimenting with her recipes during family gatherings.

Ojakangas received her award during a more intimate ceremony, a preference that aligns with her humble nature. The recognition included a medal, a guidebook, and a certificate, with the medal designated for black-tie events—a rarity for Ojakangas in her Duluth community. "The best part of FinnFest was getting to know the people and listening to their stories," she shared, reflecting on her early experiences in Finland where she gathered recipes and culinary tales. The connections she made during her travels not only enriched her cookbooks but also deepened her understanding of Finnish culture.

Preserving Culture Through Food

For Ojakangas, food is more than sustenance; it is a medium for connection and community. She recalls her time volunteering at the First Lutheran Church of Duluth, where her love for cooking manifested in the delicious meals she prepared for gatherings. "The root of all my work is encouraging care and curiosity," she explained, illustrating her belief that sharing a meal can foster deeper relationships. The kitchen, for Ojakangas, has always been a gathering place, a space where stories are shared, and bonds are strengthened over the preparation and enjoyment of food.

As she clutches her medal, Ojakangas feels a profound sense of pride not only for herself but for the Finnish people and their resilience. "It makes me really proud because they stayed Finn. They're not being pushed over," she remarked, encapsulating the spirit of determination that defines both her culinary journey and the Finnish identity. Her commitment to sharing Finnish cuisine has also inspired local events, such as cooking classes and community dinners, where people come together to explore Finnish dishes and share their own culinary traditions.

What's Next

Looking ahead, Ojakangas remains committed to her mission of sharing Finnish culture through food. She hopes to continue exploring new recipes and sharing the stories behind them, inviting others to join her at the table. Her journey is a testament to the power of culinary arts in bridging cultural divides and preserving heritage. Ojakangas plans to collaborate with local schools and community organizations to host workshops that highlight the importance of cooking as a means of cultural expression.

As she reflects on her knighthood, Ojakangas recognizes the importance of community support in her journey. The relationships she has built over the years, both in Minnesota and abroad, have been instrumental in her success. She encourages others to embrace their roots and share their stories, believing that every meal has the potential to bring people together. This ethos is particularly vital in today’s world, where many communities are seeking ways to connect amidst the challenges of modern life.

In a world that often feels fragmented, Ojakangas’ story serves as a reminder of the strength found in community, family, and tradition. Her knighthood is not just a personal achievement; it is a celebration of Finnish culture and the enduring legacy of those who dedicate their lives to preserving it. As she continues to inspire future generations, Ojakangas exemplifies the spirit of the American dream—one built on commitment, love, and a shared table. The impact of her work will resonate far beyond her lifetime, encouraging others to explore and celebrate their own culinary heritages.