Foodie Tour of the Baltic States: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania

A foodie tour to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania will not only offer a chance to taste the delicious Baltic cuisine but also a chance to soak in the beauty and culture of the region. The three countries boast of some of the best traditional dishes that showcase history, tradition, and culture.

Estonia

Estonian cuisine is influenced by the neighboring countries such as Russia, Germany, and Sweden. Some of the popular dishes to try include:

Kilu

This smoked Baltic herring is served with onions and rye bread, a classic Estonian dish that showcases the importance of fishing in the region.

Verivorst

This blood sausage is typically eaten during Christmas time and is made from pig’s blood, pork, rice, and spices.

Leib

Estonian traditional sourdough bread is a staple part of the Estonian diet and can be found in any restaurant or bakery.

Latvia

Latvian cuisine is influenced by a mix of the neighboring countries such as Germany, Russia, and Sweden. Some of the popular dishes to try include:

Rupjmaize

This traditional Latvian sourdough bread is made from rye flour and has a robust, earthy flavor.

Kartupeļi ar speķi

This dish comprises potatoes baked with bacon and onions, a staple part of the Latvian diet and a popular comfort food.

Rasols

This cold salad comprises of diced vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and pickles mixed with a creamy mayonnaise dressing.

Lithuania

Lithuanian cuisine is influenced by its neighboring countries, Poland, Russia, and Germany, and is known for its hearty, simple, and wholesome meals. Some of the popular dishes to try include:

Cepelinai

This national dish of Lithuania is a potato dumpling stuffed with meat or cheese and served with sour cream and bacon.

Kugelis

This delicious potato pudding is a savory dish that is made with grated potatoes, bacon, and onions, traditionally served with sour cream.

Šaltibarščiai

This pink-colored cold soup is made from beets, cucumbers, and sour cream and is a refreshing dish during the summer months.

Conclusion

A foodie tour of the Baltic states is a must-do activity for anyone looking to explore regional cuisine and culture. From Estonia’s smoked herring to Latvia’s sourdough bread, and Lithuania’s potato dumplings, there is a lot to explore and taste in this beautiful region. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a gastronomical adventure of a lifetime!