Ukrainian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, traditions, and recipes passed down through generations. The most famous dish is undoubtedly borscht. This incredibly tasty beetroot-based dish is rightfully called a superfood! Borscht has long been a symbol of Ukraine's culinary culture.
Interestingly, borscht has been included in UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. In 2020, a Museum of Cooked Borscht was opened in the village of Opishnia, Poltava region!
However, Ukrainian national dishes are not limited to borscht. They include many other delicacies that deserve attention. In this article, we will explore the most delicious Ukrainian dishes and share their history.
Knysh is a traditional pie from Western Ukraine, traditionally prepared for Christmas, Easter, and wedding celebrations. In the Polissia and Volyn regions, it is oval-shaped, while in Halychyna, it is round. The fillings vary and include potatoes, buckwheat, cheese, or cabbage. Knysh symbolizes home comfort and family warmth, often prepared during holidays to treat loved ones and guests. In Lviv, we recommend trying the mushroom-filled version in local restaurants, where traditional recipes meet modern flavors.
Kruchenyky are popular in Central Ukraine, particularly in the Podillia and Kyiv regions. They were traditionally served at weddings, christenings, and large family celebrations. Regional variations include fillings of dried fruits in Vinnytsia or mushrooms in the Kyiv region. Over time, kruchenyky have been prepared with diverse fillings, adding uniqueness to the dish. Visit Vinnytsia to savor the authentic taste of this dish and try variations where spices and sauces are added to enhance the flavor of the meat.
Deruny are the pride of the Polissia region, especially popular in Zhytomyr. They were often prepared for Christmas Eve or during the autumn potato harvest season. In Korosten, an annual festival of deruny is held, offering various versions of the dish: with meat, mushrooms, or cheese. Traditionally, deruny are served with homemade sour cream sauce or fried onions, adding a special flavor to the dish. In Zhytomyr, you can also find deruny with added spices or smoked ingredients, making them even tastier.
Kapusnyak originates from Galicia and Transcarpathia, where its recipes have been passed down from generation to generation. It was traditionally made in winter, especially for Christmas, when cabbage was the main source of vitamins. In the Transcarpathian version of kapusnyak, smoked meats are often used, giving the dish a rich flavor, while the Galician versions may contain legumes. Visit local Carpathian huts or festivals in Transcarpathia to taste various versions of this dish.
During the Cossack era, kapusnyak was popular among Cossack troops because it could be made in large quantities and stored well. This dish became an important part of Ukraine's culinary heritage, passed down through generations.
Banosh is a hallmark of Transcarpathia and a symbol of Hutsul culture. It is made with sour cream or cream, always adding brynza (sheep cheese), cracklings, or mushrooms. This dish holds special significance in the mountains, as its recipe is passed from parents to children, emphasizing the connection with nature. Banosh is often served at ethnic festivals, such as the "Hutsul Brynza" or "Delicious Banosh" festivals in the Carpathians.
Kulish made with millet is one of the oldest dishes that the Zaporizhian Cossacks prepared during their campaigns. Its hearty ingredients, including lard, millet, and vegetables, made it popular among both soldiers and peasants. In Poltava region, kulish is often served with smoked meats, giving it a more modern twist. Cossack culture festivals and fairs, such as in the village of Opishnya, offer visitors the chance to taste this authentic dish.
Kyiv region is not only known for its picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks but also as a true treasure trove of gastronomic discoveries. From farm products to exotic delicacies, this region offers numerous culinary adventures for food lovers. We invite you to explore the Top 7 gastronomic destinations in Kyiv region that are definitely worth visiting!
Grechanyky is a simple yet incredibly tasty dish, popular in Volyn and Polissia. It was traditionally prepared for everyday lunches and served with mushroom sauce on festive days. In Lutsk or Rivne, you can taste interpretations of grechanyky, often served with seasonal vegetables or sauces. They embody the culinary traditions of these regions.
Grechanyky are often made with the addition of herbs or sauerkraut, which gives them a unique flavor. In some cases, they are served with a side of potatoes or stewed vegetables, making the dish even more hearty and flavorful.
Varenyky with cheese is one of the most famous symbols of Ukrainian cuisine, especially popular in Slobozhanshchyna. This dish was traditionally prepared for holidays with the addition of sugar, raisins, or poppy seeds, making it resemble a dessert. On regular days, the cheese for varenyky was salty, making them a hearty meal. In Poltava, you will find modern interpretations of this dish, such as with mint cheese or the addition of spices.
Varenyky with cheese can also be served with various sauces, such as sour cream or honey, adding even more flavor nuances. In some regions of Ukraine, varenyky with cheese are traditionally prepared for Easter as part of the festive meal.
Roast is a dish with a rich history, originating from Podillia. It was traditionally cooked in clay pots for temple festivals, adding meat, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. In Vinnytsia, roast with the addition of pumpkin is popular, which gives the dish a special flavor. You can find roast in many Podillian restaurants, where it is served according to ancient recipes. Additionally, in some regions, herbs and spices are added to the dish, enhancing its aroma and making it even more delicious. This is a true embodiment of home warmth and the traditional hospitality of Ukrainian cuisine.
Holubtsi is one of the oldest dishes in Western Ukraine, which has always adorned festive tables. They were prepared for weddings, Easter, or Christmas. Transcarpathian holubtsi contain buckwheat or corn porridge, while in Galicia, popular versions are made with mushrooms. Traditionally, they are wrapped in boiled cabbage leaves, which add softness and a delicate taste to the dish. In Transcarpathia, holubtsi can be served with sour sauces or vegetable-based broths, making them even more aromatic.
Uzvar is an ancient Ukrainian beverage made from dried fruits, which has become a mandatory attribute of Christmas Eve. It was traditionally served alongside kutia, highlighting its symbolic importance of purity and health. The Lviv Christmas Festival offers various types of uzvar, including versions with added spices like cinnamon or cloves. This drink is also popular during the cold winter months, enjoyed at family gatherings, savoring its natural taste and aroma. Uzvar has become an essential part of Ukrainian culture, symbolizing harmony and family unity.
Syrnyky are a versatile dish popular in Central Ukraine, typically prepared for both breakfast and dessert. Syrnyky are often made with raisins or dried fruits. Their tender texture and rich taste of homemade cheese perfectly complement sour cream, jam, or honey. In Cherkasy, a special addition to syrnyky is berry sauces from forest fruits, adding a unique touch.
Medovnyk, also known as medianik or medovik, is a classic honey cake made of honey layers and a delicate cream. Medovnyk originates from Galicia, where it was prepared for festive events like weddings or Christmas. Its unique aroma comes from the combination of buckwheat honey, nuts, and spices. Modern restaurants in Lviv experiment with medovnyk, adding chocolate or caramelized fruits, making this dish a regional highlight.
Ukrainian dishes are not only a culinary heritage but also an opportunity to feel the warmth of home. Each dish carries its own unique history and preparation traditions. Tasting them while traveling or cooking them at home, you preserve cultural values, enjoy a variety of flavors, and share the best moments with loved ones. The national dishes of Ukraine captivate with their simplicity and richness, and the diversity allows everyone to find something that suits their taste.
Now, more than ever, it’s important to learn more about our roots. To explore the layers of Ukrainian history and culture that have shaped us as a nation. We’ve gathered a selection of places where you can relax in an ethno style as vividly and interestingly as possible.
Photo: ukraine.ua
Supported by
The project was developed in cooperation with Google within the framework of the campaign "Digital Transformation of Ukraine"
Use of site materials and copying information without written permission is prohibited.©2017—2021 Discover Ukraine. All rights reserved. Developed by Jam Digital