Local food and drink by Lake Peipsi

The rich cultural and historical heritage around Lake Peipsi is also reflected in the region’s food culture. For centuries, local people have used the natural resources of the lake and surrounding areas to create unique and delicious dishes that reflect the diversity of the region. Travelling along Lake Peipsi, visitors will discover a rich selection of traditional dishes and drinks made from local ingredients.

Smoked fish

One of the culinary calling cards of the Lake Peipsi region is smoked fish, especially smoked Peipsi koha and rudd. The traditional smoking method, handed down from generation to generation, gives the fish a special flavour and aroma that is hard to find elsewhere. In villages such as Kolkja, Kasepää and Varnja, visitors will find local fishermen selling freshly smoked fish directly from their homes or small smokehouses.

• Kolkja Peipsimaa Visitor Centre offers visitors the opportunity to learn the traditional art of smoked fish preparation and taste authentic local smoked fish products.

Onions and onion products

The Lake Peipsi region is also known for its onion farming, especially in the villages of the Old Believers, where onions and onion products are an important part of the local food culture. Onions, grown in the villages around the lake, are of exceptional flavour and quality, used in many local dishes.

• Every year, the Onion Fair is held in Onion Valley, where local farmers sell their produce, including different varieties of onions, onion pies and other delicacies made with onions.

Local Delicacies and Drinks

In addition to smoked fish and onion products, the Lake Peipsi region offers a wide range of other local delicacies. For example, the region is rich in berries and mushrooms, which are picked from the forests and used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Local artisans handcraft a variety of jams, juices, syrups and other berry products that are perfect souvenirs or gifts.

There are also a number of cafes and restaurants along Lake Peipsi serving locally sourced dishes. These eateries offer visitors the chance to discover the culinary diversity of the region, with traditional tastes of local produce.

Summary

The food culture along Lake Peipsi is rich and diverse, offering visitors unique taste experiences that reflect the cultural and historical heritage of the region. Whether it’s traditional smoked fish, fresh onion products or delicacies made from wild berries, the Lake Peipsi region’s food selection will delight the heart of every gourmet. Local food and drinks served in the region’s cafes and restaurants offer visitors the opportunity to get to know the local cuisine in depth and experience the authentic flavours that are part of Lake Peipsi’s cultural heritage.