Latvia is renowned for its unique and hearty cuisine. When you visit Latvia, you’ll discover a rich array of traditional Latvian foods that showcase the country’s culinary heritage. Below are the 10 best traditional Latvian foods you must try on your travels. Each dish offers a distinctive taste of Latvia’s culture.
1. Sklandrausis
First on the list is sklandrausis, a traditional Latvian pie made with potatoes and carrots. This sweet and savory treat features a perfectly crispy crust and a flavorful filling. Locals often enjoy it as a snack or dessert, making it a must-try for visitors.
2. Grey Peas with Bacon (Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi)
Another iconic dish is grey peas with bacon. This hearty dish combines smoky bacon and earthy grey peas. It’s filling, flavorful, and offers a true taste of Latvian comfort food. Many Latvians eat it during festive occasions, but it’s great year-round.
3. Borscht (Borščs)
Another essential dish is borscht, a beetroot-based soup enjoyed in many Eastern European countries, but especially beloved in Latvia. The dish’s vibrant red color comes from the beets, while the flavor is tangy and rich. It’s often topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with fresh dill for extra flavor. You can enjoy it either hot or cold, depending on the season.
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Perfect for: A light, refreshing meal during summer or a warm comfort food in winter.
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What makes it special: The addition of beets gives the soup a unique sweetness that pairs perfectly with the sour cream.
4. Cepelinai
Cepelinai are large, potato dumplings filled with either meat or curd. They are both hearty and satisfying. Typically, they are topped with bacon sauce and sour cream, creating a flavorful and indulgent meal. This dish is an essential part of Latvian cuisine.
5. Piragi
Piragi are small, round pastries stuffed with a variety of fillings such as meat, mushrooms, or cabbage. They make for a perfect snack or light meal. Whether you enjoy them hot or cold, piragi offer a delightful experience of Latvian flavors.
6. Rye Bread (Rupjmaize)
Rye bread, known as rupjmaize, is an essential part of Latvian cuisine. This dark, dense bread is made from rye flour and has a slightly sour taste. It’s often served with butter, cheese, or herring and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
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Why it’s special: Rye bread is an essential part of every Latvian meal and is a great accompaniment to nearly any dish.
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Fun fact: Rupjmaize is often enjoyed with a side of sklandrausis or as part of a traditional Latvian sandwich.
7. Kūpināta Zivis (Smoked Fish)
Being a coastal country, Latvia excels in smoked fish. Kūpināta zivis, or smoked fish, is a popular snack. Typically, locals enjoy herring or salmon, and often pair it with rye bread. The rich, smoky flavor is something you won’t want to miss.
8. Latvian Cheese
Latvia offers a variety of traditional cheeses, with Jāņu siers being one of the most popular. This fresh cheese is often flavored with caraway seeds and served during midsummer celebrations. It has a mild, herby taste that’s perfect for pairing with bread or fruit.
9. Kvass
Kvass is a traditional Latvian drink made from fermented rye bread. It has a slightly tangy, mildly alcoholic taste, making it incredibly refreshing, especially on warm days. It’s not only a drink but also an important part of Latvian culture. Often, locals brew their own kvass at home, and it’s served chilled with meals or as a light refreshment.
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Why try it: It’s a natural, homemade drink that offers a taste of Latvian history.
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What to expect: A mild tanginess, along with the effervescent bubbles that make it feel light and refreshing.
10. Cabbage Rolls (Kāpostu tīteņi)
Lastly, don’t forget to try kāpostu tīteņi, or cabbage rolls. These are stuffed with a mix of minced meat, rice, and spices, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. Served with a tomato-based sauce, this dish is both flavorful and comforting.
Latvia offers a wide variety of delicious traditional foods, each with its own history and flavor. From hearty soups and savory pies to smoky fish and tangy drinks, these 10 traditional Latvian foods are essential to any traveler’s experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore Latvia’s unique culinary scene!