Contents
Maizes Zupa (Latvian Rye Bread Dessert Soup)
A unique Latvian dessert made from rye bread,dried fruits, and spices. Maizes Zupa is rich, comforting, and packed withnostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
- 200 g dark rye bread (preferably stale)
- 1 liters water
- 50 g raisins
- 50 g prunes (chopped)
- 30 g dried apples (sliced)
- 60 g sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- A pinch of ground cloves (optional)
- Whipped cream or heavy cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Tear or cut the rye bread into small pieces.
- Boil and soak: In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the bread, turn off heat, and let it soak for 15 minutes.
- Add fruit and spices: Stir in raisins, prunes, dried apples, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until fruit softens and flavors blend.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée the mixture until smooth and thick.
- Chill or serve warm: You can serve it slightly warm or refrigerate it for a few hours to thicken further and enjoy it cold.
- Top and enjoy: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of heavy cream. Optionally, garnish with fresh berries or chopped nuts.
Notes
Maizes Zupa – A Unique Latvian Rye Bread Dessert 🍞🍇
When you think of dessert, rye bread might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind—but in Latvia, it takes center stage in one of the country’s most cherished sweet dishes: Maizes Zupa. This rich and comforting dessert, often compared to a pudding, transforms leftover rye bread into a delicious bowl of history, flavor, and tradition. 🇱🇻🥄 What Is Maizes Zupa?
Maizes Zupa, literally “bread soup,” is a traditional Latvian dessert made from dark rye bread, dried fruits, sugar, and spices. It’s thick, sweet, slightly tangy, and packed with flavor. Originally a clever way to avoid food waste, it has become a nostalgic favorite across generations. The base starts with soaked rye bread, which is simmered and softened, then blended with:- 🍏 Dried apples – add a touch of tartness.
- 🍇 Raisins and prunes – for natural sweetness and texture.
- 🌿 Cinnamon and sugar – warm spices for that cozy taste.
- 🥄 Cream or whipped cream – served on top for richness.
- 🍓 Fresh berries – a pop of freshness and color.
- 🥜 Chopped nuts – a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture.
💛 Why You Should Try Latvian Bread Soup
✔ A dessert like no other – Made with a staple of Latvian cuisine: rye bread.✔ Deep, rich, comforting flavors – An ideal balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced.
✔ Eco-friendly and resourceful – Rooted in tradition, this dish is the perfect example of using what you have.
✔ Perfect for cozy evenings – It’s warm, nourishing, and absolutely soul-soothing.
🍽 Where to Enjoy Maizes Zupa in Latvia
- 🏡 Latvian homes – Many families make it during holidays or Sunday dinners.
- 🍴 Traditional restaurants – Look for it on dessert menus, especially in Riga’s Old Town.
- 🎄 Christmas fairs and local markets – A nostalgic seasonal treat!
