Top 5 Dishes of Lithuanian Cuisine
Lithuania, a country of breathtaking northern beauty, is situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea. The capital of Lithuania, Vilnius, is renowned as one of Europe's most picturesque cities and holds the unofficial title of a "living museum." Throughout the country, you can discover numerous captivating historical landmarks. The Baltic Sea with its unique beaches, offering tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of major cities, will enchant travelers. Additionally, don't forget to bring home a few souvenirs to ensure lasting memories of this exceptional nation.
However, there is an essential aspect that should not be overlooked when exploring Lithuania - the cuisine.
The gastronomic culture of Lithuanians successfully blends ancient traditions with contemporary culinary trends, providing an unforgettable culinary experience.
Today, we will introduce you to five dishes of Lithuanian cuisine that are a must-try during your journey:
Cepelinai
Photo: Cepelinal, Source: https://www.thespruceeats.com
Cepelinai, also known as "didžkukuliai," are among the most popular traditional Lithuanian dishes. The full name of this dish is "didžkukuliai," but nowadays, you are unlikely to find this exact term on menus. Cepelinai resemble large potato dumplings filled with a flavorful and juicy filling. Traditionally, the filling consists of meat, cheese, or mushrooms. Cepelinai are served with crispy fried onions and a creamy sour cream sauce. This dish is highly calorie-rich, so after savoring a single Cepelinai, you can bid farewell to hunger for a considerable time. Nearly every restaurant in Lithuania features this gem of national cuisine. However, for a truly special experience, we recommend trying Cepelinai in a cozy establishment located in Vilnius' historic center.
Šaltibarščiai
Photo: Šaltibarščiai, Source: https://www.tasteatlas.com
Šaltibarščiai, a beloved cold soup among Lithuanians, is an ideal dish for hot summer days. The soup is considered light and easy to prepare, making it a true national treasure. The recipe involves creating a creamy mixture by combining grated beets and kefir, then adding grated cucumbers and boiled eggs. The flavor of Šaltibarščiai is complemented by a sprinkle of dill. After combining all the ingredients, the soup is chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing its unique taste and aroma to fully develop.
Kibinai
Photo: Kibinai, Source: https://lithuanianintheusa.com
Kibinai are traditional Karaim pastries with a variety of fillings, predominantly savory. These fillings include lamb, mushrooms, beef, vegetables, or chicken. The Karaims are a Turkic ethnic group with roots in the Crimean Peninsula. A significant Karaim diaspora still resides in Lithuania, having settled along the Baltic Sea coast 600 years ago. Over the centuries, Kibinai have become beloved not only among the indigenous Karaims but also among Lithuanians. While you can taste this dish in Vilnius, an unforgettable experience awaits those who venture to the town of Trakai, where Karaims traditionally reside, to indulge in authentic Kibinai.
Šakotis
Photo: Šakotis, Source: https://www.itinari.com
Šakotis, which translates to "a branch," is a dessert that resembles a tree and is considered a highlight of Lithuanian cuisine. It is crafted from a mixture of whipped cream, egg whites, and yolks, which are slowly baked in an oven or over an open fire. Šakotis is typically prepared for special occasions, such as Christmas or weddings. In 2015, the world's tallest Šakotis, reaching almost 4 meters in height, was created. Numerous atmospheric Lithuanian cafes offer this delicacy, serving it alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or tea.
Kepta Duona
Photo: Kepta Duona, Source: https://www.tasteatlas.com
Kepta Duona is a popular Lithuanian beer snack. Slices of bread are fried until crisp, then seasoned with garlic, and served with sour cream, cheese, or tomato sauce. Lithuanians have an affinity for quality beer, so you can find Kepta Duona practically everywhere. Besides embarking on a gastronomic adventure, you will also experience the unique atmosphere and energy of Lithuanian pubs.