Grey Peas with Bacon is one of Latvia’s most traditional and beloved national dishes, especially associated with wintertime and Christmas celebrations.
The dish is made from grey peas, a local variety of large, firm peas similar to chickpeas, combined with crispy fried bacon or smoked pork and onions. The result is a warm, hearty, and flavorful meal that perfectly embodies Latvian comfort food — simple, filling, and deeply satisfying.
Grey peas are prized for their earthy flavor and creamy texture once cooked. When paired with smoky bacon, they create a savory, nostalgic taste that Latvians associate with home and togetherness. Often served with rye bread and pickles, this dish reflects Latvia’s agricultural heritage and the use of humble, enduring ingredients.
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Latvian Grey Peas with Bacon – A Traditional Baltic Comfort Dish
Description
Grey Peas with Bacon is one of Latvia’s most traditional and beloved national dishes, especially associated with wintertime and Christmas celebrations.
Background and Origin
The history of Grey Peas with Bacon stretches back hundreds of years to Latvia’s agrarian past. Before the arrival of potatoes in the region, grey peas were one of the most important staple foods for rural families, valued for their hardiness, nutritional value, and ability to store through harsh winters.
During the long and cold Latvian winters, peas provided essential protein and sustenance, and when paired with pork — a traditional meat in Latvian cuisine — they became a complete and satisfying meal. Over time, the dish evolved into a symbol of prosperity and endurance, especially during festive seasons.
By the 19th and early 20th centuries, grey peas with bacon had become a Christmas Eve tradition, representing abundance and good fortune for the coming year. Even during periods of hardship, such as under Soviet rule, families continued to prepare it as a gesture of national pride and cultural continuity.
Today, Grey Peas with Bacon remains a culinary symbol of Latvian identity, enjoyed not only during holidays but year-round in homes and restaurants. It’s a dish that speaks of resilience, simplicity, and the warmth of shared meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
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How to Prepare Grey Peas with Bacon
- Wash and soak the grey peas in a lot of water overnight. Transfer them into a big pot, add water and simmer until soft. This will take about 2 hours or more.
- In a separate pan, saute the chopped onion in the butter. Add the bacon and stir-fry for 10 minutes until crisp.
- Add the salt and pepper to taste. Mix and continue to stir-fry.
- Once the grey peas are cooked, serve in small bowls and garnish with the bacon and parsley.
Video credit- AllasYummyFood–YouTube
Note
Tips for Making Grey Peas with Bacon
- You can start by stir-frying the bacon to crisp. This also brings out natural oil you can discard or use.
- Serve with rye as desired.
- Ensure to soak the grey peas overnight, or you might cook them longer.
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Grey peas with bacon are a taste of Latvian history and heart. Every bowl celebrates the country’s resourceful spirit, the beauty of simplicity, and the comfort of tradition carried from one generation to the next.
Happy cooking!
