Five most popular Latvian dishes. Explanations and names in Latvian!



Latvian cuisine is known for its hearty and wholesome dishes, often featuring ingredients like potatoes, grains, dairy products, and fish. 

Here are five traditional Latvian food recipes that are popular in the country:

Grey Peas with Bacon (Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi)

Grey peas are a staple in Latvian cuisine, and this dish pairs them with diced bacon or pork to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. The peas are soaked overnight, cooked until tender, and then mixed with the crispy bacon pieces.

Latvian Bacon Buns (Pīrāgi)

Pīrāgi are small bacon-filled pastries that are often served as a snack or appetizer. The dough is made from flour, water, and butter, and it is rolled around a filling of finely chopped bacon and onions before being baked until golden brown.

Rye Bread Soup (Rupjmaizes zupa) 

This is a traditional Latvian dessert soup made from rye bread, dried fruits (such as raisins or prunes), and sweetened with honey. The mixture is cooked until the flavors meld, and it is often served cold with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Latvian Bacon and Onion Potato Salad (Rasols)

Rasols is a classic Latvian potato salad that includes boiled potatoes, diced bacon or ham, boiled eggs, pickles, and onions, all mixed together with mayonnaise and sour cream. It's a popular dish at festive occasions and family gatherings.

Latvian Barley Porridge (Kārtojums) 

Kārtojums is a traditional layered dessert made with barley porridge, whipped cream, and fruit (usually lingonberries or cranberries). The porridge is sweetened with sugar and flavored with cinnamon, and the layers are assembled in a glass dish before being chilled.

These dishes offer a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Latvia. Latvian cuisine is deeply connected to the country's history, culture, and natural resources, and trying these traditional recipes can be a delightful way to explore the flavors of Latvia.

You could also try

  • Aukstā Zupa – Cold Soup.
  • Siļķe Kažokā – Herring in a Coat.
  • Aukstā Gaļa – Cold Meat in Jelly.
  • Biešu Zupa – Beetroot Soup.
  • Kartupeļu Pankūkas – Grated Potato Pancakes.
  • Kotletes – Minced Meat Patties.
  • Skābeņu Zupa – Sorrel Soup.

Photo credits - Pixabay.com

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