Food in Estonia

Estonia, a hidden gem in Northern Europe, beckons travelers with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and intriguing culinary scene. Estonian cuisine, a blend of simplicity and heartiness, reflects the country's connection to its land, sea, and seasons. From the bustling food markets of Tallinn to the traditional smokehouses on the islands, this Baltic nation offers a unique gastronomic journey. Discover the must-try Estonian dishes and culinary customs that will enrich your travel experience and provide a genuine taste of this captivating country.

Estonian Dishes

Rukkileib (Rye Bread)

An essential staple in Estonian cuisine, rukkileib is a dense, dark rye bread. It's deeply flavorful, often made with sourdough and can be found accompanying most meals. Traditionally, Estonians believe that each slice of bread carries a significant amount of respect due to the hard work that goes into making it, so it is never wasted.

Kiluvõileib (Sprat Sandwich)

Kiluvõileib is a simple yet iconic Estonian sandwich made with dark rye bread topped with butter, a layer of sprats, and garnished with green onions or herbs. It's a common snack and a staple at social gatherings.

Verivorst (Blood Sausage)

Verivorst is a type of blood sausage traditionally served during the Christmas season. It's made from a mixture of pork blood, barley, and pork fat, encased in a pig intestine. Verivorst is often seasoned with marjoram and allspice and is usually served with lingonberry jam and potatoes.

Sült (Jellied Meat)

Sült is a dish similar to head cheese, made by boiling pork bones, meat, and spices until the natural gelatin is released. Once set into a jelly-like consistency, it's cut into slices and commonly enjoyed with mustard and vinegar.

Mulgipuder (Mashed Potatoes with Groats)

Mulgipuder is a hearty dish made from a mixture of mashed potatoes and barley groats. It's often flavored with bacon or pork fat and served alongside pickles or fermented cabbage for a balance of flavors.

Kama

Kama is a unique Estonian food product consisting of a mixture of roasted barley, rye, oat, and pea flours. Not baked as a bread, kama is instead mixed with sour milk or kefir as a quick meal or snack, and sometimes sugar, berries, or jam are added.

Marineeritud Angerjas (Marinated Eel)

Eel is a delicacy in Estonia, and marineeritud angerjas is a preparation where eels are marinated and then smoked or fried. It's a dish often associated with coastal areas and is considered a gourmet treat.

Seljanka (Solyanka Soup)

Seljanka is a thick, spicy, and sour soup that contains meat, fish, or mushrooms. It's a hearty dish that features pickles, olives, and a dollop of sour cream, offering a complex combination of flavors.

Smoked Fish

Given Estonia's extensive coastline and numerous lakes, smoked fish is a common and popular dish. Varieties such as salmon, trout, and eel are often smoked with a variety of woods, resulting in a rich, deep flavor.

Peipsi Rääbis (Peipus Whitefish)

Peipsi rääbis is a species of whitefish found in Lake Peipus, a large freshwater lake on Estonia's eastern border. It's typically prepared smoked or fried and is prized for its delicate, sweet flavor.

Estonian Desserts

Kohupiimakorp (Curd Cheese Pastry)

Kohupiimakorp is a pastry filled with sweetened curd cheese, often flavored with vanilla or citrus zest. It's a popular treat enjoyed at coffee time or as a dessert.

Kringel (Estonian Cinnamon Braid Bread)

Kringel is a sweet, braided bread that is a festive staple, especially during Christmas and other celebrations. It's typically flavored with cinnamon and cardamom and can be adorned with nuts, dried fruits, or a sugar glaze.

Kama

Though mentioned earlier as a non-dessert item, kama can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat when mixed with sugar, berries, and sometimes whipped cream, creating a light and nutritious dessert.

Karask (Barley Bread)

Karask is a traditional quick bread made from barley flour, often sweetened with honey or sugar and enriched with kefir or buttermilk. It's a simple, satisfying bread with a slightly crumbly texture.

Mustika Pirukas (Blueberry Pie)

Mustika pirukas is a beloved summer dessert when blueberries are in season. The pie features a crust filled with sweet, juicy blueberries, often topped with a crumble or lattice pastry top.