They say that Estonians are the most stationary nation in Europe – thousands of years ago, our forefathers gathered on this land and decided to stay. We carry with us traditions and wisdom that has been passed down from generation to generation. The roots of our story go way back. Now we look back and appreciate our old recipes and ancient customs. We want to prepare traditional dishes in a way that all Estonians know and love while also adding a contemporary touch.
Potato and pearl barley porridge, i.e. potato-barley mash, originates from Southern Estonia. People in Southern Estonia (the Mulgi people) started boiling potatoes and pearl barley together in the second half of the 19th century as the combination was very filling. By the last quarter of the 19th century, this porridge was known all over Estonia. In the second half of the 20th century, this dish reached cafeterias as well and it has by now become a national dish that is served at various official events.
Porridge
700 g potatoes
100 g pearl barley
50 g butter
Salt
Streaked meat and onion
300 g streaked smoked pork
100 g onions
20 g parsley
Salt
Pepper
Oil
Salted mushrooms and onion
300 g mushrooms
100 g onions
Oil
Parsley
Salt
Pepper
Photos by: Johannes Hõimoja