Top 5 Appetizers and Snacks in Lithuania

Despite not having a great reputation abroad, Lithuanian cuisine has a lot to offer. Here, we give you a taste of some of the most well-liked Lithuanian appetizers and snacks that you could make for your upcoming gathering. 

Although some of them are adaptations of other cuisines, they have occupied their traditional spots on Lithuanian tables and menus for many years.

1. Kepta Duona (Fried Bread)

Fried bread is without a doubt the most characteristically Lithuanian snack that comes to mind when paired with a cold beer or kvass. 

Rye bread is used to make this snack, which is then quickly pan-fried in oil until crisp. Rub salt and garlic into the fried pieces on both sides—this is an important step. Adding cheese sauce, drizzling mayonnaise over it, or even drizzling mayonnaise over it and then topping it with grated cheese are additional options. 

It is as salty and greasy as it sounds! However, it is preferable to beer and potato chips when watching a basketball or football game or when spending the evening at a bar.

Kepta duona is typically offered on the menus of all bars and pubs as well as basic eateries. They can also be found in supermarkets, but the best ones are unquestionably those that are just made.

2. Mėsyčių Rinkinys (Meat Charcuterie)

A charcuterie platter with a focus on meat should be present on every traditional snack table. Lithuanians produce a variety of meat products that they adore. The platter typically contains pork in a variety of preparations, including smoked, cured, dried meats, salami, bacon, and more. 

Smoked pork ears and salted or smoked pork fat, also known as "flitch," are two of the local specialties. Typically, pickles, fried bread, and smoked cheese are placed on this platter. 

The platter has been updated to include more types of cheese paired with olives, tomatoes, or even grapes, as well as meats from other cuisines like prosciutto or serrano.

Although this charcuterie platter is popular worldwide, the Lithuanian version always includes traditional meats and dried bread, which are less common elsewhere. This platter is available as a snack to go with your drink in the majority of bars and pubs. With meats and snacks from the grocery store, it is also simple to make at home!

3. Kibinai (Kibin) 

Thin and enriched with butter, eggs, and sour cream, kibinai dough is made. It has a meat filling and is hand-rolled. The dough is then tightly sealed, and the top is formed into a braid. 

The filling is typically made of minced mutton, onions, and various herbs. These days, chicken, beef, or pork can be used as the filling. Curd, cabbage, and other vegetables are offered as fillings in the vegetarian variation. 

Since kibinai are delicious both hot and cold, they can be served as a snack or the main course. They are typically consumed with a cup of hot broth, cold beer, or kvass.

They are typically still warm in supermarkets. The best ones, however, can be found in unique Kibinai restaurants and kiosks, particularly in Trakai, the city where they were first produced.

4. Keptas Varškės Sūris (Baked Curd Cheese)

Without dairy products, especially curd, a type of cottage cheese, Lithuanian cuisine would be impossible. Either pressing the curd or boiling fresh, sweet milk is used to make this curd cheese. One of the most common cheeses in Lithuania is this one. 

In addition to spices, garlic, herbs, and even honey, Lithuanians enjoy their cheese smoked or baked. Although this appetizer is simple to make at home and tastes even better when it's still warm, supermarkets sell a wide variety of it with different ingredients. 

The cheese can be served on a platter with other cheeses, along with meat charcuterie or even mixed with salad greens.

Don't forget to sample this typical Lithuanian item. If you choose to purchase one, reheat it as directed on the package in the oven. Enjoy it by spreading it on some rye bread!

5. Silkė (Herring)

The traditional food of Lithuania holds a special place for herring. It is a staple food consumed daily as well as on special occasions in homes all over Lithuania, whether salted, marinated, in oil, or without. 

On Christmas Eve, herring is typically consumed because Lithuanians observe the fast and abstain from meat and dairy during this time. 

Herring may be served with fried onions and carrots, beans, raisins, or mushrooms during other celebrations. Herring is frequently consumed alongside boiled potatoes, rye bread, pickles, or onions.

The phrase "herring under a fur coat" refers to a salad that also contains potatoes, beets, carrots, eggs, and mayonnaise. It is occasionally made in advance for special occasions. 

Local traditional restaurants serve this dish as an appetizer, and herring is available at all major grocery stores.