Guide to Traditional Russian Dishes You Must Try

Russian cuisine has a rich and diverse history that reflects the country’s cultural and geographic influences. The traditional cuisine of Russia dates back to the 9th century when the country was known as Kievan Rus. At that time, the diet of the people consisted mainly of grains, vegetables, and dairy products, with little meat. Over time, as trade routes opened up and Russia’s territory expanded the country’s cuisine was enriched by new ingredients and techniques from neighboring countries such as China, Mongolia, Persia, and Turkey. During the 18th and 19th centuries, French cuisine had a significant influence on Russian cuisine, particularly among the aristocracy. However, the Soviet era from 1922 to 1991 saw a shift towards more simple and economical dishes, as resources were scarce. Today, Russian cuisine continues to evolve and adapt to modern tastes, while still maintaining its rich cultural heritage.

Top 12 Traditional Russian Dishes

If you want to fully immerse yourself in Russian cuisine, be sure to try these 12 traditional dishes that are an absolute must-try.

Borscht

Borscht, a Ukrainian beet soup, has become a beloved specialty in Russian cuisine. While some may find beets an unusual soup base, this hearty dish has gained popularity for good reason. It is loaded with meat and sautéed vegetables, including cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes, making it a delicious and nutritious meal. Borscht can be served either hot or cold and pairs perfectly with a dollop of fresh sour cream.

Pelmeni

Pelmeni is a beloved comfort food and the national dish of Russia that has been around for centuries. These pastry dumplings are filled with minced meat and wrapped in thin pasta-like dough, then boiled until cooked through. Pelmeni can be served alone with a topping of sour cream and butter, in a soup broth, or alongside other traditional Russian dishes. It’s simple preparation and delicious taste have made it a popular dish across Eastern Europe, and it continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Blini (Russian Pancakes)

Religious traditions have had a significant impact on Russian cuisine, with certain customs dating back to pre-Christian times. One such example is the tradition of pancake-baking, where people used to bake round pancakes to resemble the sun. Unlike French crêpes, Russian pancakes are very thin and not sweet. They can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients, including sour cream and salmon, caviar or mushrooms, or for those with a sweet tooth, condensed milk or berries. In fact, pancakes are so important in Russian culture that there is a special holiday called Maslenitsa, which takes place one week before the start of spring, where people consume pancakes for an entire week. This tradition has been passed down through generations and remains a beloved aspect of Russian cuisine.

Shashlik

Shashlik is a grilled dish that originated from the Caucasus Mountain region and is a Russian adaptation of the traditional kebab. The dish consists of cubed meat and vegetables grilled on skewers, and gained popularity in Russia after the 19th-century conquest of the Caucasus. Shashlik has become a staple in Russian cuisine, with each family having its own closely-guarded recipe. However, the secret to achieving the perfect shashlik lies in the marinade used. A good marinade can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat, making it a mouth-watering delight that is sure to satisfy any taste buds.

Ukha

For seafood lovers, a must-try dish in Russian cuisine is the Ukha, a clear broth fish soup that is both simple and delicious. Various types of fish can be used to prepare this soup, including bream, wels catfish, northern pike, and ruffe. Along with the fish, the soup contains root vegetables, leeks, parsley, and dill, similar to what you would find in a classic chicken soup. The Ukha’s light yet the savory flavor is perfect for those looking for a satisfying yet not-too-heavy meal, making it a popular choice in Russia and beyond.

Pirozhki

Pirozhki are a popular snack in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus that can be baked or fried, and come in the form of small puff pastries filled with a variety of delicious ingredients such as potatoes, meat, cabbage, or cheese. These tasty snacks are commonly found in schools and factories throughout Russia and are a quick and convenient option for lunch or a snack break. With their wide variety of fillings and crispy pastry shell, pirozhki are a satisfying and flavorful treat that has become a beloved part of Russian cuisine.

Solyanka

Solyanka is a hearty soup that can easily be a meal on its own. This thick and flavorful soup typically contains a variety of meats, including sausage, bacon, ham, and beef, along with an assortment of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes. One of the key elements of this dish is the use of chopped pickles, which contribute to its signature tangy flavor. A slice of lemon is also a traditional garnish that enhances the soup’s sour taste. In addition to meat, some variations of Solyanka include fish and pickled cucumbers, adding even more depth and complexity to this popular Russian dish.

Caviar

Russian caviar is a luxurious delicacy that seafood lovers simply must try. Made from the eggs of sturgeon fish, caviar has been enjoyed in Russia for centuries and is considered a true delicacy. The eggs are typically harvested from the Beluga, Osetra, and Sevruga species of sturgeon, and are known for their rich and buttery flavor, which can vary depending on the type of sturgeon and the processing method used. Traditionally, caviar is served on blini, which are small, thin pancakes similar to crepes, or on crackers. It can also be paired with other traditional Russian foods like sour cream or chopped onions. Whether you’re indulging in caviar as a special treat or as part of a lavish meal, it’s a luxurious and unforgettable taste of Russian cuisine.

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Medovik

Medovik, a Russian honey cake, is a delicious and popular dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. This layered cake is made with honey-infused sponge cake layers and creamy frosting made with cream cheese, sour cream, and butter. Each layer of the cake is spread with the frosting before being stacked to create a rich and indulgent dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious. The cake’s name, “Medovik”, comes from the Russian word for honey, which is used in abundance throughout the recipe. Its sweet and slightly caramelized flavor makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea or as the perfect ending to a Russian feast, Medovik is a must-try dessert that will leave a lasting impression.

Vodka

Vodka is undoubtedly the most famous alcoholic drink to come out of Russia, and the country is home to numerous distilleries producing various types of this classic spirit. Russian Standard Gold, Moskovskaya Osobaya, Kauffman, and Beluga Noble are just some of the renowned brands that offer high-quality vodka. However, the beverage options in Russia don’t stop there. You can also find an array of other drinks on the menu, including tea, mineral water, beer, and soda. So, whether you’re a vodka enthusiast or prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, Russia has something for everyone to enjoy.

Smetana

Sour cream or smetana is a staple in Russian cuisine, accompanying many traditional dishes such as crepes, soups, and even desserts. This fresh, creamy, and tangy condiment has a distinctive flavor that complements a wide range of warm dishes. One of the most well-known dishes that feature sour cream is beef stroganoff, which it is used to enhance the richness and creaminess of the sauce. The versatile and delicious flavor of sour cream has made it an essential ingredient in Russian cuisine.

Pashka

Paskha is a beloved dessert that holds a special place in Russian Easter traditions. This sweet and creamy cheesecake-like dessert is typically made with farmer’s cheese or cream cheese and is sweetened with sugar and vanilla. The dessert is often shaped into a pyramid and adorned with intricate decorations such as Christian symbols and images of Easter. Paskha is usually enjoyed alongside another traditional Easter dessert, kulich, a sweet and aromatic bread that is often baked in a cylindrical shape and topped with icing and colorful sprinkles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Russian cuisine offers a wide variety of dishes that are flavorful, hearty, and rich in history and tradition. From the famous borscht to the beloved pelmeni and the sweet honey cake, Russian cuisine has something for everyone to try and enjoy. Its unique ingredients and cooking methods are a testament to the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Russian cuisine over time. So whether you’re in Russia or trying out a Russian restaurant in another part of the world, don’t miss out on the chance to savor the tastes of this fascinating and delicious culinary tradition.