Latvian cuisine shows strong influence from German, Scandinavian, and Slavic sources. It also has many fundamentally Latvian traditions that are often overlooked by outsiders but which are deeply cherished locally. Latvian cuisine is heavy on pork, potatoes, fermented dairy, and pickled vegetables. Herring and lampreys from the Baltic Sea and local rivers provide delicacies that […]

Rye has been grown in Latvia for more than 1200 years and rye bread (rudzu maize or rupjmaize) has been a staple of Latvian cuisine for nearly as long. The reason why is simple: rye grows well in moist soil and can be planted in spring and fall and is thus exceptionally well adapted to […]

Potato pancakes dominate coffee shop menus in Riga, Latvia—and for good reason! Meticulously prepared using grated potatoes, eggs, and flour, these pancakes are crisped to a brilliant golden hue, reaching a level of perfection that rivals the shining sun itself. The mouthwatering allure of this delightful dish is recognized worldwide. Following their inception in Eastern […]