Latvian cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and reliance on locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the country's agricultural heritage and seasonal availability. Traditional dishes often feature potatoes, rye bread, pork, and dairy products, with a strong emphasis on preserving and fermenting foods. Popular dishes include "piragi," small bacon-filled pastries, and "sklandrausis," a sweet rye pastry filled with carrot and potato. Fish, particularly herring and salmon, is also a staple, often smoked or pickled. Meals are typically hearty and flavorful, with dill, caraway seeds, and sour cream frequently used to enhance the taste.