Lithuania, whereas one of many smallest European international locations, can also be one of many richest by way of historical past and tradition. The Lithuanian language is taken into account one of many oldest surviving Indo-European languages. The land of amber, stunning landscapes, and gorgeous structure might not be the preferred amongst vacationers exploring the jap elements of Europe. However those that wander right here don’t have anything to complain about, together with the meals.
It’s nearly a criminal offense to go to Lithuania with out tasting its conventional recipes. The delicacies is as tied to its historical past and tradition as any previous constructing within the Vilnius Old Town. Uncover which dishes you could attempt to be taught a tip or two for exploring this historic nation.
Ideas for Visiting Lithuania
Earlier than you embark on a journey to find what Lithuania has to supply, don’t neglect to organize upfront. One essential factor to think about is how you’ll keep in contact with mates, household, and residential.
Most Lithuanian lodging supply a dependable Wi-Fi connection, however you most likely gained’t—and shouldn’t—spend all of your time in a lodge room. Exploring means occurring little adventures, and Wi-Fi gained’t all the time be out there.
Our suggestion is to download an eSIM app. This app will give you a number of cheap information plans to make use of overseas and keep away from excessive roaming prices. You possibly can select from numerous plans for Lithuania. Or, for those who’re touring throughout Europe, you possibly can select a regional plan to cowl multiple nation and keep linked.
Additionally, do not forget that Lithuania’s official forex is the euro, so don’t neglect to trade some cash—ideally not on the airport, as trade charges there might be unfavorable. Lithuania makes use of C/F 230 V plug standards, as do another European international locations, so take an adapter in case your chargers are incompatible.
The Most Recognizable and Scrumptious Lithuanian Dishes You Should Strive
Conventional Lithuanian delicacies is principally based mostly on potatoes with numerous additions, however don’t be fooled by how easy it sounds. Even such fundamental elements can style heavenly when ready in response to previous, artisanal recipes and made with native elements.
Lithuanian dishes are additionally filled with carbohydrates and animal fat, which isn’t distinctive to the nation. This cooking fashion, widespread in Central and Jap Europe, developed as a result of individuals wanted a number of energy to work within the fields and had few elements out there. Preserve this in thoughts once you eat out—a hearty conventional Lithuanian lunch can fill you up for the day.
Let’s transfer on to the meat (or potato, on this case) of the article—what should you strive in Lithuania?
Cepelinai
Cepelinai are a no brainer relating to Lithuanian meals, however it’s a criminal offense to not point out them in any Lithuania-focused article. This most well-known dish consists of dumplings made from grated potatoes and full of quite a lot of fillings, together with minced meat, mushrooms, and extra. Cepelinai are often served with a hearty addition of bacon bits and bitter cream.
It’s thought that cepelinai appeared in Lithuania someday between the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. They have been the best tavern meals: fatty, caloric, filled with carbohydrates, and very best for drained and hungry employees and wanderers.
Fascinating reality: Lithuania’s historical past is closely linked to Poland’s, which can also be evident within the culinary traditions of each international locations. Cepelinai are recognized in jap and northern Poland as kartacze and are thought of a regional dish.
Lithuanian pink soup (Šaltibarščiai)
Conventional pink Lithuanian chilly soup is right for summer time journey. It’s ready with beetroot and kefir and served with a boiled egg, cucumbers, and the compulsory sprinkle of dill.
Pink soup appeared in Lithuanian culinary books within the nineteenth century however might be a lot older. Because the title suggests, it’s served chilly and is supposed to be a refreshing meal after a day of sweating within the warmth. We advocate making an attempt it, particularly for those who go to Lithuania throughout the scorching, sunny summer time!
Kugelis
Kugelis is a conventional Lithuanian dish that may merely be described as “potato pie.” Its elements embrace potatoes, onions, bacon, milk, eggs, and seasoning, that are mixed and baked within the oven to create a savory pie. Kugelis is often served with a dollop of bitter cream.
We talked about earlier that Lithuanian delicacies is essentially based mostly on potatoes, so it’s no shock that Lithuanians have give you dozens of the way to organize this widespread vegetable. However, kugelis is unquestionably one thing you could strive when visiting Lithuania.
Kibinai
Kibinai are a must-eat merchandise for those who ever go to Trakai Citadel—they’re a regional specialty. Though it’s not a conventional Lithuanian dish, because it originated in Tartar delicacies, it’s a lot beloved by Lithuanians and is a part of the custom now.
Kibinai are oven-baked dumplings historically full of lamb meat. Immediately, the fillings range—you will discover kibinai with spinach and cottage cheese, and there are even candy variations. So whether or not you like savory or candy, there’s one thing for everybody. Simply keep in mind to burn off these energy by taking a stroll via the attractive streets of Trakai.
