Delicious Latvian Salad Recipe

This recipe is a delightful and hearty salad that evokes the comforting flavors of Latvia. It's a medley of tender boiled pork, vegetables, and creamy dressing, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The salad combines straightforward ingredients, each contributing its unique touch to the dish. Ideal for gatherings or everyday meals, this salad is sure to please a crowd with its flavorful mix of meats and vegetables. Its preparation process emphasizes preserving moisture and enhancing the taste profile. With a combination of cooked potatoes, carrots, and juicy pickles, the salad boasts a satisfying bite in every forkful. It's also versatile enough to adapt with different ingredients according to dietary preferences. Chill the salad before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Ready in just an hour, it's a convenient choice for a quick and delicious meal. Enjoy this comforting Latvian classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

320 g boiled pork
100 g boiled carrots
200 g boiled potatoes
200 g pickled cucumbers
200 g canned green peas
150 g boiled eggs

Sauces and Seasonings

250 g mayonnaise
50 g mustard pickle salad (Spilva) or 1 tablespoon mustard
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are pre-cooked and ready for mixing. Boil the pork in water for about an hour. Add salt and bay leaves, and continue boiling until the pork is tender. Allow to cool in the broth to retain moisture.
Cook the Vegetables: Boil carrots and potatoes until soft. Peel and let them cool, ensuring they're ready to be chopped.
Prepare the Eggs: Boil the eggs, peel them, and allow them to cool completely.
Chop the Ingredients: Once cool, chop the pork, carrots, potatoes, pickled cucumbers, and eggs into thin strips for uniform texture.
Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with the canned green peas, gently mixing to avoid breaking the peas.
Incorporate the Meat: Add the chopped pork to the vegetable mixture, folding in gently to maintain the texture.
Season the Salad: Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Create the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the mustard or mustard pickle salad. Adjust the proportions based on your preference for tanginess.
Mix the Salad: Add the dressing to the salad mix, stirring well to ensure that all elements are evenly coated.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed for your desired flavor balance.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chilled salad as a standalone dish or as a part of a larger meal spread.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 15g
Fats: 30g
Carbs: 35g

Tips

Substitution: Use chicken or turkey instead of pork for a different flavor profile.
Texture Tip: Ensure ingredients are cut into uniform sizes for a balanced texture.
Flavor Enhancement: Add fresh dill for an extra aromatic touch.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with smoked tofu or additional boiled eggs.
Low-Fat Version: Opt for a low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt-based dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniments: Serve with hearty rye bread or alongside grilled meats.
Garnish Ideas: Top with finely chopped fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.

Best Places

Riga Central Market - Known for rich Latvian flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Location: Nēģu iela 7, Riga, Latvia.
Lido - Offers traditional Latvian dishes in a cozy setting. Location: Krasta iela 76, Riga, Latvia.
3 pavāru restorāns - Famed for innovative takes on traditional Latvian cuisine. Location: Torņa iela 4, Riga, Latvia.
Folkklubs ALA pagrabs - Vibrant spot with authentic Latvian dining experience. Location: Peldu iela 19, Riga, Latvia.
Zivju Lete - Celebrated for its fresh local seafood selection. Location: Basteja bulvāris 14, Riga, Latvia.
Restaurant 1221 - Offers historic charm with its gourmet Latvian menu. Location: Jauniela 16, Riga, Latvia.
Rozengral - Tap into medieval Latvian dining in a cellar setting. Location: Rozena iela 1, Riga, Latvia.
Valmiermuižas alus vēstniecība - Combines local beer with regional dishes. Location: Brīvības iela 13, Valmiera, Latvia.
House of Blackheads - Known for its elegant surroundings and Latvian delights. Location: Rātslaukums 7, Riga, Latvia.
Dome Fish House - Offers contemporary Latvian cuisine with a focus on fish. Location: Miesnieku iela 4, Riga, Latvia.