Vita Seņkāne's Ancient Tradition of Baking Bread in Stoļerova Attracts Both Young and Old
Vita Seņkāne, a resident of Stoļerova in Latvia, is bringing the community together with her traditional bread baking classes and local culinary offerings.
In the picturesque village of Stoļerova, located in the Rēzekne municipality, Vita Seņkāne is at the forefront of reviving ancient culinary traditions through her renowned bread-baking sessions. Despite the lingering snow cover around her home, she is eagerly preparing for the spring season, welcoming visitors in March for her unique "taste month." Vita, who has transformed her life over the past five years from a sports and home economics teacher to a baker, emphasizes the joy and community spirit that come with sharing her baked goods, including her special rye crackers made from a blend of rye flour, seeds, and spices.
Having always dreamed of baking in a wood-fired oven, Vita took bold steps to realize her aspirations. She left her stable job, enrolled as a job seeker, and pursued culinary courses which culminated in her graduation as a food technologist from the Rēzekne Technology Academy. Her passion also led her to gain hands-on experience at the Aglona Bread Museum, learning under skilled baker Vija Kudiņa. Vita’s story is not just about bread; it is about creating a sense of belonging and connection in her community while introducing traditional Latvian culinary practices to both locals and visitors alike.
As spring approaches, Vita's home, which she shares with her family, becomes a hub for culinary exploration. She expresses excitement for her first visitors of the season, showcasing not just the bread baking but an entire immersive experience in local flavors and traditions. This initiative not only revitalizes local customs but also encourages tourism and community interaction in Stoļerova, making her bakery a cherished point of interest for both young and old.