Top 5 Dishes of Estonian National Cuisine

Estonia is a country of stunning beauty, surrounded by the sea on three sides and comprising over one and a half thousand islands. Every year, the Eastern coast of the Baltic Sea attracts seekers of new experiences from all over the world. However, Estonia offers more than just beaches. Estonian cities will introduce you to unique cultural and architectural landmarks, numerous art centers, and cozy restaurants offering European and national cuisine.

Estonian traditional dishes have been shaped by the lifestyle of people who have long lived on this land. Spices are rarely used here, and most dishes have natural, subtle flavors and aromas. Cold snacks, dairy and meat soups, grain and vegetable mixtures, fish, and game are traditionally popular.

Estonian culinary culture is special, and today we have gathered for you five dishes that are definitely worth trying to fully enjoy this unique cuisine.

Kiluvoileib

Photo: Kiluvoileib, Source: https://raffimatcha.wordpress.com

Kiluvoileib is a traditional Estonian sandwich that is incredibly easy to make. While its appearance may not seem so attractive, its taste can surprise you. The basis of the dish is Baltic herring, which is usually soaked in a mixture of water, sugar, and spices to achieve a unique sweet-sour taste. To prepare Kiluvoileib, marinated Baltic herring fillet is wrapped in slices of dark rye bread spread with delicate sour cream butter. Sometimes, sliced boiled eggs, red onions, and fresh dill are added to the sandwich. You can taste this interesting appetizer in local Tallinn bakeries or cozy restaurants of traditional Estonian cuisine.

Mulgipuder

Photo: Mulgipuder, Source: https://www.tasteatlas.com

Mulgipuder is a national Estonian dish that was previously prepared only for major celebrations. Mulgipuder is made from mashed potatoes, to which boiled cereal, usually barley or pearl barley, is added and then mixed to a creamy consistency. The porridge is garnished with fried bacon and onions, giving it a unique taste. You can find this dish in some traditional Tallinn restaurants, but the best option would be a trip to the Estonian Open Air Museum in Rocca al Mare, where you can try authentic Mulgipuder in a local traditional tavern.

Kama

Photo: Kama, Source: https://www.flickr.com

Kama is an ancient dish with a history dating back 5,000 years. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that "kama" is a mixture of various types of flour, usually barley, rye, oat, and pea. This mixture is combined with milk or kefir, sweetened with honey and sugar. Kama has a nutty flavor and a creamy consistency, which has made it quite a popular dessert.

Sult

Photo: Sult, Source: https://www.travel365.it

Sult is a traditional Estonian jellied meat, prepared by boiling pork meat and bones until they become incredibly tender and aromatic. Basic spices such as bay leaves, pepper, and garlic are often added to the dish. The secret of Sult lies in slow cooking, as it allows the pork to release its natural gelatin, which gives the dish its jelly-like consistency when cooled. Sult is often served cold on festive tables and enjoyed with mustard and fresh cucumbers.

Verivorst

Photo: Verivorst, Source: https://www.tasteatlas.com

Verivorst, better known as blood sausage or "black pudding," is made by mixing fresh pork blood with cooked barley or rice, giving the sausage its characteristic grainy texture. The mixture is seasoned with onions, salt, pepper, and filled into specially treated casings. The sausage is then boiled or baked until it forms a light crust. Verivorst is most commonly prepared for Christmas holidays.