Traditional Latvian Sklandrausis

Sklandrausis is a traditional Latvian pastry, celebrated for its intriguing combination of savory and sweet flavors. It is traditionally made with a rye flour crust and is filled with layers of potatoes and carrots, seasoned to taste. The crust, crisped to perfection, pairs exquisitely with the creamy and slightly sweet filling. This dish has its roots in the Courland region of Latvia and is often enjoyed as a hearty snack or dessert. While some variations exist, the use of rye flour remains a constant, providing its distinctive texture and flavor. Perfect for gatherings, sklandrausis can be served as an appetizer or dessert to delight friends and family. The intriguing combination of ingredients delivers both a satisfying and healthful treat. With a filling made from nutritious vegetables, it’s both an indulgent and nourishing dish. Preparing it may take some time, but the result is a delightful pastry rich in tradition and taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 350-400g water
• 1000g rye flour
• 100g wheat flour
• 120g margarine or butter
• Salt to taste

Filling

• Potato Mixture:

  • 1.2-1.5 kg potatoes
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: melted butter, sour cream, eggs

• Carrot Mixture:

  • 3.2-3.5 kg carrots
  • 300-500g sugar
  • Optional: sour cream, eggs, a bit of flour or semolina
  • Cumin or cinnamon to taste

Additional Ingredients

• 150-180g butter
• 600-800g sour cream
• Optional: more sugar, as desired

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 120 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • Mix the rye and wheat flours with hot water, to which margarine (or butter) and salt have been added beforehand.
   • Continue mixing until a firm, rollable dough is formed.

2. Roll Out the Dough:

   • Roll out the dough to about 2-3 mm thickness.
   • Cut or press out round discs approximately 8-14 cm in diameter.
   • Fold the edges of the dough discs upwards and place them on a greased baking sheet.

3. Potato Filling Preparation:

   • Boil the potatoes until tender.
   • Grate or mash them into a smooth mixture, adding salt, sour cream, eggs, or melted butter as per personal preference.

4. Carrot Filling Preparation:

   • Boil the carrots until soft.
   • Mash them into a smooth consistency and mix with sugar. Add sour cream, eggs, and a bit of flour or semolina if desired.

5. Assembly:

   • Spread the potato mixture over the prepared rye flour discs, followed by the carrot mixture on top.
   • Use a ratio of 1:2 to 1:1 for the potato to carrot layers.

6. Baking:

   • Bake in a preheated oven at a high temperature (220-250°C) until the pastry base is dry, about 15-30 minutes.
   • Optionally, glaze the top with a mix of sour cream, sugar, and egg or with sour cream alone, and sprinkle with sugar.

7. Seasoning:

   • Add cumin or cinnamon according to taste preferences.

Tips

• For a crispier base, ensure that the dough is not overly thick.
• To enhance the flavors, let the filling mixtures sit for 30 minutes before assembling the sklandrausis.
• Experiment with different proportions of sugar and spices to suit your taste.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 6g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• For a vegetarian variation, omit eggs from the filling.
• Use honey instead of sugar for a distinct sweetness.
• Add chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm, garnished with a dollop of sour cream.
• Pair with a glass of rye beer or herbal tea.

Best Places

• Fazenda Bazārs - A homely spot serving freshly baked sklandrausis. Location: Elizabetes iela 10b, Riga, Latvia.
• Lido Atpūtas Centrs - A popular restaurant known for traditional Latvian foods. Location: Krasta iela 76, Riga, Latvia.
• Kukotava - Offers a delightful selection of Latvian pastries including sklandrausis. Location: Tērbatas iela 8, Riga, Latvia.
• Valmiermuižas Alus Darītava - Enjoy sklandrausis with locally brewed beer. Location: Dzirnavu iela 2, Valmiera, Latvia.
• Trušu Karaliste - A unique farm experience with traditional dining. Location: Ozolnieki, Latvia.
• Vecmeita Ar Kaktiņu - Cozy cafe with a focus on authentic Latvian dishes. Location: Baznīcas laukums 2, Kuldīga, Latvia.
• Peter's Brewhouse - Offers craft beer and Latvian snacks. Location: Rožu laukums 5/6, Liepāja, Latvia.
• Zāļu Sievas - Known for their natural and organic ingredients. Location: Alūksnes iela 1a, Sigulda, Latvia.
• Siera Nams - A quaint spot offering rustic meals. Location: Rīgas iela 15, Jelgava, Latvia.
• Skroderkrogs - Combines modern dining with traditional roots. Location: Jomas iela 7, Jūrmala, Latvia.