Food in Ukraine

Ukraine, a country steeped in tradition and history, beckons travelers not just with its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, but also with its robust and hearty cuisine. Ukrainian dishes, characterized by their generous use of vegetables, meats, and grains, offer a taste of the nation's soul and agricultural bounty. This guide will introduce you to the must-try Ukrainian specialties that promise to delight your palate and provide a deeper understanding of the country's culinary identity. Whether you're wandering through the vibrant streets of Kyiv or exploring the rural charm of the Carpathians, the flavors of Ukraine are not to be missed.

Ukrainian Dishes

Borscht

Borscht is arguably the most famous Ukrainian dish, a hearty soup known for its characteristic red color thanks to the primary ingredient: beetroot. It often includes meat, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and cabbage. Served with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, it's a staple across Ukraine's diverse regions, with each having its own variation of this beloved dish.

Varenyky (Pierogi)

Varenyky are crescent-shaped dumplings that are a comforting staple of Ukrainian cuisine. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, minced meat, cheese, or even fruits for a sweet version. Boiled and sometimes pan-fried, they are traditionally served with sour cream or melted butter and garnished with crispy fried onions or bacon bits.

Holubtsi (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Holubtsi are cabbage leaves stuffed with a mix of minced meat and rice or buckwheat, then rolled and simmered in a tomato-based sauce. This hearty dish is often reserved for special occasions and can be found in many Eastern European cuisines, each with its own twist.

Deruny (Potato Pancakes)

Deruny, or potato pancakes, are a simple yet delicious Ukrainian dish made from grated potatoes mixed with onions, eggs, and flour, then fried until crispy and golden. They are typically served with sour cream or a creamy garlic sauce on the side.

Salo

Salo is a traditional Ukrainian delicacy consisting of cured slabs of pork fatback. Often flavored with garlic, black pepper, and sometimes smoked, it is typically sliced thin and served with rye bread, mustard, or horseradish. It's also a common accompaniment to vodka.

Okroshka

A refreshing cold soup perfect for hot summer days, Okroshka is made with finely chopped fresh vegetables like cucumbers, radishes, and spring onions, combined with boiled potatoes, eggs, and a cooked meat such as beef or ham. The mixture is then diluted with kvass (a fermented beverage made from rye bread) or kefir and garnished with dill.

Banjarene Palyushka

This traditional Ukrainian bread is often baked in the form of a round loaf. It's soft, slightly sweet, and can be found accompanying most meals. It's particularly important during rituals and festivities, where it's adorned with symbolic decorations before being shared among guests.

Chicken Kyiv

Despite its name suggesting otherwise, Chicken Kyiv is a dish that originated in Ukraine's capital. It consists of a breaded and fried chicken fillet rolled around cold butter, then cooked until the exterior is crisp and the inside is filled with melted butter. When cut open, the buttery juices pour out, making for a rich and indulgent experience.

Ukrainian Desserts

Syrniki

Syrniki are a popular Ukrainian breakfast food or dessert. These fried quark pancakes are slightly sweet, fluffy, and typically served with sour cream, jam, honey, or fresh berries. The cheese used in Syrniki gives them a creamy texture and rich flavor.

Medivnyk (Honey Cake)

Medivnyk is a traditional Ukrainian honey cake known for its layers of spiced honey cake and sweet cream filling. Often made during Christmas and New Year celebrations, it's a moist, dense cake that balances the deep flavors of honey with a light, whipped frosting.

Pampushky

Pampushky are Ukrainian doughnuts that can be either savory or sweet. The sweet version is often filled with jam or fruit and dusted with powdered sugar, while the savory version is typically served with garlic sauce as an accompaniment to borscht.

Uzvar

Uzvar is a traditional Ukrainian drink made from dried fruits like apples, pears, and cherries that have been stewed and sweetened. It's often consumed during the Christmas Eve supper and is known for its refreshing and slightly tangy taste.

Kutia

Kutia is a ceremonial grain dish made with wheat berries, poppy seeds, honey, nuts, and sometimes dried fruits. It's an essential part of the Ukrainian Christmas Eve meal and is known for its symbolism of prosperity and commemoration of ancestors.

Yabluchnyk (Apple Cake)

Yabluchnyk is a delightful Ukrainian apple cake, featuring layers of shortcrust pastry and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples. It's a common dessert in Ukraine, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.