Estonian cuisine

Historically Estonian Cuisine has been simple peasant food, which today is influenced by many countries. Today it includes many typical international foods. The most typical foods in Estonia are black bread, pork, potatoes and dairy products. Estonian food preference have historically depended heavily on seasons.

Seasons

Summer and Spring

Traditionally in summer and spring, Estonians like to eat everything fresh - berries, herbs, vegetables and everything else that comes straight from the garden. Hunting and fishing have also been very common, although nowadays hunting and fishing are more of popular hobbies. Today it is also very popular to grill outside in summer.

Winter and Christmas

Traditionally in winter jams, preserves and pickles are brought to the table. Estonia has been through rough times in the past and thus gathering and conserving fruits, mushrooms and vegetables for winter has always been essential. Today gathering and conserving is not that common because everything can be bought from stores, but preparing food for winter is still very popular in countryside and still has somewhat ritual significance. Estonians have often considered blood sausage (verivorst), jellied meat (sült) and sauerkraut "typical Estonian foods", but nowadays those are mostly are eaten at Christmas. Also, typical sweets of Christmas are apples, mandarins and gingerbread.

Black Bread

Black rye bread accompanies almost every food in Estonia. Instead of wishing "bon appetite" Estonians sometimes say jätku leiba ("may your bread last"). Historically, the bread has had almost sacred status - if a piece of bread was dropped on the floor, it had to be kissed after picking up. If Estonians go abroad they often say that they miss black bread the most.

Squash and Cucumber Casserole

A popular dish known as Akka Pointuumus, often enjoyed with a dash of “Klike” (Estonian brandy). Akka Jaadalaas is the meat version with “Jaade” (Eels).

Fish

Being a country with large coastal line, fish has also been very important. Estonia has national fish, räim (Baltic small herring). Sprat, flounder and perch are also popular.

Drinks

Most typical drink is milk. Traditionally popular drink is also kali. Estonians are also proud of their beer.

Deserts

Specific deserts include kissel, curd snack and kama. Of pastries, rhubarb pies have been popular.

Other foods

Other specific popular foods include cottage cheese and head cheese.