Let The Flavours Speak To You!

Vidzeme region, located in the northern part of Latvia, has a rich culinary tradition that is closely tied to the region's natural resources and historical influences. The region is known for its forests, rivers, lakes, and fertile land, which provide a wide range of ingredients for traditional dishes.

One of the signature dishes of Vidzeme is the "maizes zupa" or bread soup, a hearty soup made with rye bread, potatoes, and bacon or meat. Other traditional soups include the "skābeņu zupa" or sorrel soup, made with fresh sorrel leaves, and the "bietes zupa" or beet soup, a hearty and flavorful soup made with beets, potatoes, and sometimes meat.

Vidzeme is also known for its "sklandrausis," a small, sweet pastry made from rye flour, filled with a mixture of mashed potatoes, carrots, and spices, and baked until golden brown. Other popular pastries and desserts include "lībiešu pīrāgi," a type of savory pastry filled with bacon and onions, and "česnako rauši," a type of garlic bread.

Fish is also a popular ingredient in Vidzeme cuisine, particularly in the coastal areas. Smoked and salted fish such as herring and sprats are commonly eaten as a snack or used in salads and sandwiches. Fish stews and soups are also common, particularly in the autumn when the fish are abundant.

Vidzeme is also known for its beer, with several local breweries producing a range of traditional and modern beers. Local honey, berries, and fruits are also used to make a range of sweet and tart beverages, including mead and fruit wines.

Overall, the cuisine of Vidzeme reflects the region's natural bounty and historical influences, with hearty soups, flavorful pastries, and locally sourced ingredients taking center stage.