Food in Latvia

Latvia, a Baltic gem, offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary culinary experiences that reflect its cultural diversity and history. Latvian cuisine, rooted in the seasonal and the hearty, invites travelers to savor dishes where local ingredients take center stage. From the bustling markets of Riga to the quaint countryside taverns, Latvia presents an array of flavors that cater to both the adventurous foodie and the comfort-seeking eater. Discover the must-try Latvian specialties as you embark on a gastronomic journey through this enchanting northern European country.

Latvian Dishes

Pelēkie Zirņi ar Speķi

Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi, or grey peas with bacon, is a hearty Latvian classic. It features whole grey peas, which are similar to chickpeas but with a distinct earthy flavor, sautéed with onions and diced speķi (smoked bacon). This dish is especially popular during the colder months and is often enjoyed with a side of rye bread and pickles.

Rupjmaizes Kārtojums

Rupjmaizes kārtojums is a layered rye bread dessert with a sweet twist. It includes dark rye bread crumbs, often sweetened with sugar and layered with whipped cream, cranberries, or lingonberries. This dish showcases the Latvian love for rye bread, which is a staple in their cuisine.

Jāņu Siers

Jāņu siers, or caraway cheese, is a traditional Latvian cheese made from curdled milk and seasoned with caraway seeds. It has a semi-soft texture and is commonly consumed during the summer solstice festival known as Jāņi. This cheese is a symbol of the sun and is enjoyed with a glass of beer.

Skābputra

Skābputra is a sour porridge made from fermented oatmeal, which is a typical dish in the Latgale region. It has a unique sour taste and is often served with milk, cream, or butter. This dish is a testament to the Latvian tradition of fermenting foods to preserve them.

Sklandrausis

Sklandrausis is a Latvian savory pie with a sweet filling. It features a rye crust and is traditionally filled with a mixture of mashed carrots and potatoes, seasoned with caraway. This dish has been granted the Traditional Speciality Guaranteed status by the European Union, emphasizing its cultural significance.

Karbonāde

Karbonāde is the Latvian version of a pork schnitzel. It is a breaded and fried pork cutlet, often served with potatoes, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. This dish is a staple in many Latvian households and is a comforting and satisfying meal.

Maizes Zupa

Maizes zupa, or bread soup, is a sweet soup made from rye bread. The bread is fermented to create a base, which is then sweetened with sugar and flavored with dried fruits and spices. It can be served hot or cold and is often topped with whipped cream.

Pīrāgi

Pīrāgi, sometimes referred to as bacon buns, are small, crescent-shaped pastries filled with smoked bacon and onions. They are a popular snack or appetizer and are especially common during festive occasions. Pīrāgi are a beloved part of Latvian culinary heritage.

Latvian Desserts

Debessmanna

Debessmanna, or cranberry mousse, is a light and airy dessert made from whipped cranberry juice and semolina. It is a refreshing treat, often served with milk or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Debessmanna is a favorite among Latvians, particularly as a dessert after a heavy meal.

Biezpiena Sieriņš

Biezpiena sieriņš is a sweetened cottage cheese dessert, often shaped into small cakes or bars and coated with chocolate. It's a popular treat for children and adults alike and can be found in various flavors, including vanilla and raisin.

Alexander Torte

Although its origins may be disputed, the Alexander Torte is a well-loved dessert in Latvia. It consists of layers of shortcrust pastry filled with raspberry or currant jam and topped with a powdered sugar icing. This dessert is named after Tsar Alexander III and is a fixture at many Latvian celebrations.

Piparkūkas

Piparkūkas are Latvian gingerbread cookies, which are particularly popular during the Christmas season. They are often intricately decorated with icing and come in various shapes and sizes. The spices used in piparkūkas give them a warm, festive flavor.

Ķīselis

Ķīselis is a fruit jelly dessert made from sweetened fruit juice thickened with starch. It is typically served chilled and can be made from a variety of fruits, such as cherries, currants, or apples. Ķīselis is commonly accompanied by milk or a spoonful of cream.