What to Eat in Latvia: Top 7 Latvian Foods
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Loading... - Gilbert Gore
- 31 Mar 2025
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Latvian cuisine is rich in flavors and traditions, reflecting the country’s agricultural heritage and cultural influences. Here are seven must-try Latvian foods that showcase the unique tastes of this Baltic nation.
1. Pīrādziņi
Pīrādziņi are crescent-shaped pastries that are a staple in Latvian cuisine. They come in various sizes and fillings, with larger, yeast-based versions often served as snacks, while smaller, buttery pastries are typically enjoyed alongside hearty soups. Common fillings include onions, minced meat, bacon, cabbage, and creamy cottage cheese, making them a versatile and delicious treat.
2. Aukstā Zupa
Aukstā zupa is a refreshing cold soup that boasts a vibrant pink color, thanks to its main ingredient: beets. This unique dish is made with cucumbers, kefir, hard-boiled eggs, and milk sausage, and is seasoned with dill and scallions. Often enjoyed in the summer months, it’s best served chilled with slices of dark bread on the side.
3. Rupjmaize
Rupjmaize is a traditional Latvian rye bread, known for its distinctive sour and sweet flavor. Baked in a hearth oven, this whole-grain bread is shaped into elongated loaves and pairs wonderfully with smoked fish, cold cuts, and strong cheeses like Roquefort. It’s a staple at many Latvian tables and a must-try for visitors.
4. Frikadeļu Zupa
Frikadeļu zupa is a comforting meatball soup that features a variety of vegetables such as carrots, celery, and potatoes. The meatballs, made from ground beef or pork mixed with milk, eggs, onions, flour, and breadcrumbs, are simmered with the vegetables until cooked through. This nourishing soup is often enriched with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
5. Karbonāde
Karbonāde is Latvia’s take on the classic Wiener schnitzel, featuring a thinly pounded pork cutlet that is breaded and fried to perfection. Typically served with a savory chanterelle mushroom sauce, it’s accompanied by sides like boiled potatoes with dill, French fries, cabbage salad, pickled vegetables, and slices of rye bread. This hearty dish is a favorite among locals.
6. Griķi
Griķi, or buckwheat, is a staple grain in Latvian cuisine. Often served as a side dish, it can be prepared in various ways, including boiled or roasted. Griķi is nutritious and pairs well with meats, vegetables, and sauces, making it a versatile addition to many meals.
7. Sklandrausis
Sklandrausis is a traditional Latvian pastry made from a rye crust filled with a sweet mixture of carrots and potatoes, often flavored with spices like cinnamon and cardamom. This unique dish is typically enjoyed as a dessert or snack and showcases the use of local ingredients in Latvian cooking.
Latvian cuisine offers a delightful array of flavors and textures, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. From savory pastries to hearty soups and traditional breads, these seven dishes are essential for anyone looking to experience the true taste of Latvia.
