‍Šašliks vs. Regular BBQ

Barbecue is universal, but not all Barbecue is created equal.

The Latvian barbecue, or 'šašliks,' is a celebration of simplicity and flavor.

Its roots trace back to the Caucasus, brought to Latvia during the Soviet era, and it’s since become a cherished tradition.

Here’s what makes šašliks different from your everyday barbecue:

The Meat Matters

Regular BBQ often relies on fatty cuts, pre-marinated in mass-produced sauces.

Šašliks? It’s all about high-quality meat—Pork is the most common choice for šašliks in Latvia, but beef, chicken, and even fish are also used.

Grilling Technique

Many Latvians cook šašliks on simple, homemade grills—often just metal sheets or bricks arranged to hold skewers over hot coals. It’s about the fire and the smoke, not the equipment!

Authentic šašliks is cooked on metal skewers rather than wooden ones, as metal heats up and cooks the meat more evenly from the inside.

No fancy grill setups—just fire, skewers, and skill.

Where BBQ can sometimes feel heavy with sugar-laden sauces and overpowering rubs, šašliks thrives on simplicity.

The marinade enhances, not hides, the natural flavor of the meat.

Bread and Sauce Pairings

In a typical BBQ, sides are an afterthought.

With šašliks, they’re essential. It's normally paired with Latvian staples like rye bread, pickled veggies, and garlicky sauces for the ultimate balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh.

One of the most beloved Latvian traditions involves dipping fresh spring onions or juicy tomatoes into a sprinkle of coarse salt, eaten alongside the grilled meat. It’s a perfect example of how the best dishes rely on fresh, high-quality ingredients—simple yet flavorful.

Fresh Ingredients, Simple Pairings

One of the most beloved Latvian traditions involves dipping fresh spring onions or juicy tomatoes into a sprinkle of coarse salt, eaten alongside the grilled meat. It’s a perfect example of how the best dishes rely on fresh, high-quality ingredients—simple yet flavorful.

Year-Round Delight

While it’s traditionally a summer dish, Latvians don’t shy away from grilling šašliks in winter. Snow-covered landscapes and the warmth of a fire make the experience even more magical.

Go for šašliks—you’ll never look at regular BBQ the same way again!