Top Five Dishes of Ukrainian Cuisine
Six thousand years ago, the first large settlements appeared on our planet. And it did not happen on the territory of present-day Ukraine. The ancient Trypillian civilisation on Ukrainian lands is considered a unique phenomenon in human history, and Ukraine has preserved numerous amazing artefacts that allow us to learn more about the life of the world's first farmers.
Today, Ukraine is an incredible European country that is forced to confront the Russian invader who has come to seize Ukrainian lands.
Despite the challenges, the country remains a unique tourist destination. So, if you decide to visit this country, you will definitely need some tips.
Today we will tell you about five of the most delicious dishes of Ukrainian cuisine.
Deruny
Photo: Derunu, Source: https://gurman.com.ua
Deruny are golden crispy pancakes made from grated potatoes, eggs, flour, and spices. To prepare deruny, start by peeling and grating the potatoes, then add eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until a thick dough forms. Then, place the deruny on a heated frying pan and fry them until they develop a crispy golden crust on both sides. Serve deruny hot, drizzled with homemade sour cream.
Borscht
Photo: Borscht, Source: https://uk.wikipedia.org
Borscht is undoubtedly the most famous Ukrainian dish and a true symbol of national culinary identity. This hearty vegetable soup gets its vibrant red color from its key ingredient, beets. However, borscht is not just about beets; it's a harmonious combination of vegetables, often including cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes, slow-cooked until the dish becomes exceptionally flavorful and aromatic. Borscht is typically served with sour cream and a slice of dark rye bread or a delicious Ukrainian garlic bun known as pampushka. Ukrainian borscht has also been recognized as part of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage, deserving immediate protection.
Banosh
Photo: Banosh, Source: https://authenticukraine.com.ua
Banosh is an incredibly tasty dish traditionally prepared by the Hutsuls, an ethnic group of Ukrainians living in the Carpathian Mountains. This dish consists of creamy cornmeal porridge generously drizzled with sour cream and topped with salty sheep cheese called brynza or a wild mushroom sauce. The contrast between the delicate creamy porridge and the pungent cheese creates an explosion of flavors that will make you ask for another serving.
Kyiv Cake
Photo: Kyiv Cake, Source: https://ikyyanyn.com
Kyiv Cake, also known as "Kyivskyi tort," is a dessert made up of layers of airy sponge cake, caramelized hazelnuts, and a luscious cream frosting. This masterpiece of confectionery has been adorning Ukrainian celebrations for several generations. You can savor a slice of authentic Kyiv Cake in cozy Kyiv cafes or purchase it at local supermarkets.
Holubtsi
Photo: Holubci, Source: https://shuba.life
Holubtsi are tender cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of ground meat, rice, onions, and spices, then simmered in a special pot. Holubtsi have been a part of Ukrainian cuisine for centuries and are traditionally served at festive occasions such as weddings and birthdays. They are presented as the main course, accompanied by sour cream and a zesty mustard sauce.