🥗1. Grey Peas with Bacon (Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi) - A Comfort Food Classic

If you're in the mood for a hearty and flavorful dish, look no further than grey peas with bacon. This traditional Latvian comfort food consists of boiled grey peas served with crispy fried bacon and often accompanied by sour cream and chopped onions. The smoky and savory flavors of the bacon perfectly complement the tender and slightly sweet grey peas, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It's often served as a side dish or a main course, and it's especially popular during the winter months when a warm and satisfying meal is just what you need.

🥣2. Rye Bread Soup (Maizes zupa) - A Unique Twist on Soup

When it comes to soups, Latvia has a dish that stands out from the rest - rye bread soup. This unique dish features rye bread, which is an essential staple in Latvian cuisine, soaked in water or milk, and then flavored with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes dried fruits like raisins. The result is a thick and creamy soup with a slightly tangy and sweet flavor that is both comforting and refreshing. Rye bread soup is often served chilled in the summer as a refreshing treat, but it's also enjoyed warm during the colder months. It's a true taste of Latvia's culinary heritage and a must-try for any adventurous foodie.

🍟3. Potato Pancakes (Kartupeļu pankūkas) - A Crispy Delight

Potatoes are a beloved ingredient in Latvian cuisine, and potato pancakes are a popular dish that showcases their versatility. These crispy and golden pancakes are made from grated potatoes mixed with eggs, flour, and onions, and then pan-fried until they're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Potato pancakes are often served with sour cream and sometimes accompanied by smoked salmon or bacon for added flavor. They're a beloved comfort food in Latvia, enjoyed as a snack, a side dish, or even a main course. One bite of these delicious pancakes, and you'll understand why they're a national favorite.

🥯4. Speķa Pirāgi - Bacon-Filled Pastries for a Tasty Treat

Speķa pirāgi, also known as bacon buns, are a popular Latvian snack or appetizer that will satisfy your cravings for something savory and delicious. These small pastries are made from a dough filled with diced bacon and onions, seasoned with spices like caraway seeds, and then baked until golden brown and crispy. The combination of the rich and salty bacon with the aromatic spices makes speķa pirāgi a flavorful and addictive treat that's perfect for snacking on the go or enjoying as a part of a meal. It's no wonder that these little buns are a beloved national dish in Latvia.