Discover the Flavors of Lithuania: 18 Authentic Recipes You Must Try
When it comes to traditional cuisine, Lithuania has a rich and diverse heritage that reflects its history, culture, and geography. From hearty potato dishes to sweet pastries, Lithuanian cooking is characterized by its simplicity, freshness, and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking to explore your own cultural roots or simply want to try something new, these 18 authentic Lithuanian recipes are sure to delight.
From classic comfort foods like cold beet soup and potato pancakes, to savory dishes like pork roast with apples and cepelinai (zeppelin-shaped potato dumplings), there’s a little something for everyone in this collection. And don’t forget the sweet treats – think honey cake, curd cheese cookies, and barley soup with its hint of sweetness. In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Lithuania’s most beloved dishes, each one steeped in tradition and sure to become a new favorite.
Cold Beet Soup (Šaltibarščiai)
A refreshing and vibrant Lithuanian soup perfect for hot summer days, Šaltibarščiai is a popular dish that showcases the beauty of beets in their pureed form.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh dill, parsley, or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast them for about 1 hour, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and chop them into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, puree the beets with yogurt, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (roasting) + chilling time
Potato Pancakes (Bulviniai Blynai)
These crispy and flavorful potato pancakes are a classic Lithuanian dish, perfect for a snack or side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, beaten egg, flour, and salt. Mix well to combine.
2. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Cook the pancakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the pancakes from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Cepelinai (Zeppelin-shaped Potato Dumplings)
Cepelinai are a traditional Lithuanian dish that will transport you to the rolling hills of Eastern Europe with every bite. These potato dumplings are shaped like zeppelins and filled with a savory mix of pork, beef, and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then peel and mash.
2. In a separate pan, cook the pork, beef, and mushrooms over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and season with salt and pepper.
3. Mix the cooked meat mixture into the mashed potatoes. Beat in the egg until well combined.
4. Divide the potato mixture into 8-10 portions. Shape each portion into a zeppelin shape (about 5 inches long).
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the cepelinai until golden brown, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as sour cream or fried bacon.
Cooking time: About 20-25 minutes
Kugelis (Lithuanian Potato Pudding)
A traditional Lithuanian dish, Kugelis is a rich and comforting potato pudding that’s perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish, using fewer ingredients while still maintaining its authentic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, sour cream, melted butter, and chopped onion. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rye Bread Soup (Duonos Sriuba)
This traditional Lithuanian soup is a comforting and flavorful blend of rye bread, vegetables, and pork. Perfect for a chilly day or as a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye bread, cubed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of pork (such as bacon or ham), diced
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rye bread, chicken broth, water, marjoram, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is fully broken down.
4. Stir in diced pork. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fried Bread with Garlic (Kepta Duona)
A classic Georgian recipe that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired size.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the bread disks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
9. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the fried bread.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lithuanian Honey Cake (Medutis)
Medutis is a classic Lithuanian dessert that combines the warmth of honey with the comfort of cake. This moist and flavorful honey cake is perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with honey, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Beat in vanilla extract. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Curd Cheese Cookies (Varškės Sausainiai)
Curd Cheese Cookies (Varškės Sausainiai): A traditional Lithuanian treat that combines the tanginess of curd cheese with the sweetness of sugar and spices, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 250g curd cheese (fresh or dried)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine curd cheese, vanilla extract, and beaten egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork Roast with Apples (Kiaulienos Kepsnys su Obuoliais)
A classic Lithuanian dish, this Pork Roast with Apples is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Tender pork pairs beautifully with the caramelized apples, making it an ideal main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless pork shoulder
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the sliced apples in butter until caramelized.
4. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Place the pork in a roasting pan and top with the cooked onions and apples.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lithuanian Stuffed Cabbage (Balandėliai)
This classic Lithuanian dish is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. The tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and spices make for a truly satisfying experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head and cut off the stem end.
2. Bring a large pot of water to boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re soft and pliable.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Place a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface and place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the cabbage into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the stuffed cabbage rolls for 5-7 minutes on each side.
7. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Buckwheat Porridge with Mushrooms (Grikiai su Grybais)
A traditional Lithuanian breakfast dish, this hearty porridge combines the nutty flavor of buckwheat with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms. Perfect for a chilly morning, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup buckwheat groats
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the buckwheat groats and soak them in water or broth for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked buckwheat.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the saucepan and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Add the drained buckwheat to the saucepan and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
6. Pour in 2 cups of water or broth, and bring the porridge to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the buckwheat is tender and creamy.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Herring with Boiled Potatoes (Silke su Virtomis Bulvėmis)
This traditional Lithuanian recipe is a simple yet flavorful combination of marinated herring and boiled potatoes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pickled herring fillets
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into large chunks
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potato chunks in salted water until they are slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the marinated herring fillets to the skillet, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve the herring mixture over the boiled potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Boiling potatoes: 10-12 minutes
– Cooking herring mixture: 5-7 minutes
Lithuanian Apple Cheese (Obuolių Sūris)
This traditional Lithuanian dessert is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Obuolių Sūris, or Apple Cheese, is a creamy spread made with apples, cheese, and spices that’s perfect for topping toast, crackers, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and grated
– 250g of grated cheese (a mix of cheddar and feta works well)
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the grated cheese to the apple mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve lined with parchment paper.
4. Let it drain for at least 30 minutes to remove excess liquid.
5. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None required
Barley Soup (Miežinių Sriuba)
This hearty Barley Soup is a traditional Lithuanian recipe that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. With its comforting blend of sweet barley, tender vegetables, and savory broth, it’s a perfect dish for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the barley and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the soaked barley, diced tomatoes, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lithuanian Sauerkraut Soup (Rūgpienės Sriuba)
This hearty and flavorful soup is a staple of Lithuanian cuisine, made with sauerkraut, pork, and vegetables. The tangy flavor of the sauerkraut pairs perfectly with the rich pork broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork bones or neck bones
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 4 cups chicken or pork broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
2. Add the pork bones and sauerkraut. Pour in the broth and water, then bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Meat Dumplings (Rūkyta Mėsa Koldūnai)
A hearty and comforting Lithuanian dish, Smoked Meat Dumplings are a staple of traditional cuisine. These tender dumplings filled with smoky goodness are perfect for a cozy dinner or as a snack to warm your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup smoked meat (such as kielbasa or andouille), crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, warm water, salt, and sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rope.
4. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form dumplings.
5. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook dumplings for 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Remove dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain excess water.
7. Serve hot with melted butter, smoked meat, and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lithuanian Cranberry Kissel (Spanguolių Kisielius)
A traditional Lithuanian dessert, Spanguolių Kisielius is a sweet and tangy cranberry kissel that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of sugar to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let the kissel cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Poppy Seed Bread (Aguonų Pyragas)
This traditional Lithuanian sweet bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, with its delicate poppy seed flavor and soft texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and cardamom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Experience the flavors of Lithuania with these 18 authentic recipes! From hearty soups like Rye Bread Soup and Barley Soup, to savory dishes like Pork Roast with Apples and Smoked Meat Dumplings, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet treats like Lithuanian Honey Cake and Sweet Poppy Seed Bread, or try traditional snacks like Fried Bread with Garlic and Curd Cheese Cookies. This collection of recipes showcases the country’s rich culinary heritage and is sure to delight anyone looking to explore new flavors.