Russia boasts a rich culinary heritage, influenced by its vast geography, diverse climates, and historical developments. Traditional Russian cuisine features hearty and comforting dishes, many of which have been passed down through generations. From rich soups to decadent desserts, the flavors of Russia offer a unique experience for any traveler. Whether you are visiting the bustling streets of Moscow or the historic city of St. Petersburg, you should not miss the chance to try some of Russia’s most famous dishes.
This guide introduces you to the must-try traditional Russian dishes that every tourist should sample while exploring Russia’s culinary scene.
1. Borscht
Why It’s Important
Borscht is perhaps the most iconic dish in Russian cuisine, and it is loved across the country. This vibrant beetroot soup has various regional variations, but the classic Russian version is a rich, hearty dish with a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
Key Ingredients
- Beets
- Cabbage
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Onions
- Meat (typically beef or pork)
- Garlic and herbs (such as dill)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
What to Expect
Borscht is a filling soup, often served with a dollop of sour cream and accompanied by dark rye bread or garlic bread (called salo when topped with lard). It’s commonly served as a starter or a light main dish, especially in colder months.
Regional Variations
- Ukrainian Borscht: While Ukraine is known for its borscht, Russia also claims the dish, and you’ll find many variations across the country, each with its unique twist on the soup.
2. Pelmeni
Why It’s Important
Pelmeni are Russian dumplings, often compared to ravioli but with their own unique characteristics. They are one of the most beloved comfort foods in Russia and can be enjoyed as a hearty meal or snack.
Key Ingredients
- Ground meat (usually beef, pork, or lamb)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Flour and water for the dough
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
What to Expect
Pelmeni are small, round dumplings filled with seasoned ground meat, then boiled or fried. The dish is often served with sour cream, butter, or vinegar. Some regional variations include adding mushrooms or vegetables to the filling.
Regional Variations
- Siberian Pelmeni: Originating from Siberia, these dumplings are traditionally filled with minced meat, including a mix of pork, beef, and sometimes venison or elk. They are often made in large batches and frozen for future use.
3. Blini
Why It’s Important
Blini are Russian pancakes, often served during the festival of Maslenitsa (the Russian equivalent of Mardi Gras), but they are enjoyed year-round. Blini are versatile and can be served with a wide variety of fillings and toppings, from sweet to savory.
Key Ingredients
- Buckwheat or wheat flour
- Eggs
- Milk or buttermilk
- Butter
- Yeast (for some versions)
What to Expect
Blini are thin, crepe-like pancakes that can be served in stacks, often accompanied by a variety of toppings. Popular fillings include caviar, smoked salmon, sour cream, jam, or honey.
Regional Variations
- Siberian Blini: Often thicker and heartier, these pancakes are traditionally made with buckwheat flour and served with hearty fillings, such as smoked fish or meats.
4. Beef Stroganoff
Why It’s Important
Beef Stroganoff is a creamy, savory dish that originated in Russia in the 19th century. It’s one of the most famous Russian dishes internationally and is known for its tender beef, flavorful sauce, and rich texture.
Key Ingredients
- Beef (usually tenderloin)
- Onions
- Mushrooms
- Sour cream
- Mustard
- Beef broth or wine
What to Expect
The beef is typically sautéed and simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made from sour cream, mustard, and beef stock, and is often served over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cold weather.
Regional Variations
- Soviet-era Stroganoff: During the Soviet period, Stroganoff was commonly served with rice or buckwheat, depending on regional availability.
5. Shchi
Why It’s Important
Shchi is a traditional Russian cabbage soup, known for its nourishing qualities. It has been a staple of Russian cuisine for centuries and was especially popular during the long winters.
Key Ingredients
- Cabbage (fresh or sauerkraut)
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Onions
- Meat (usually pork, beef, or chicken)
- Herbs and spices
What to Expect
Shchi is a comforting and filling soup with a tangy, savory flavor. It’s made by simmering cabbage with meat and vegetables, often garnished with sour cream. It can be made with fresh cabbage or, in some variations, fermented cabbage for extra tang.
Regional Variations
- Solyanka: A thicker, spicier version of shchi with additional ingredients like olives, pickles, and cured meats. It’s a beloved dish with a bold, distinctive flavor.
6. Kholodets (Aspic)
Why It’s Important
Kholodets is a unique and traditional Russian dish made from meat jelly, often served cold as a starter or appetizer. It may seem unusual to some, but it’s a long-standing part of Russian culinary history.
Key Ingredients
- Pork or beef (including bones)
- Garlic
- Bay leaves
- Pepper and other seasonings
What to Expect
Kholodets is made by boiling meat and bones to create a gelatinous broth, which is then cooled to form a firm jelly-like texture. It’s served chilled, typically with mustard or horseradish and rye bread. The meat in kholodets is usually shredded and suspended in the jelly.
Regional Variations
- Kholodets in the North: In northern Russia, kholodets is often made with wild game meat, such as venison or rabbit, and is served with pickled vegetables.
7. Solyanka
Why It’s Important
Solyanka is a bold, hearty soup that combines sour, salty, and spicy flavors. It’s a flavorful dish that can be made with different types of meat, including fish, and is loved for its complex taste.
Key Ingredients
- Meat (beef, pork, or chicken) or fish
- Olives
- Pickles
- Cabbage
- Tomatoes
- Lemon
- Herbs and spices
What to Expect
Solyanka is a thick, rich soup with a variety of flavors. It combines salty, sour, and savory elements and is often topped with sour cream and served with lemon slices for an extra punch of flavor.
Regional Variations
- Fish Solyanka: In coastal regions, fish solyanka is made with fish stock, fish, and pickled cucumbers, adding a unique twist to the traditional meat version.
8. Pirozhki
Why It’s Important
Pirozhki are small, stuffed buns that are perfect for snacking or a light meal. These pastry pockets can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from savory to sweet.
Key Ingredients
- Yeast dough
- Filling options: minced meat, cabbage, mushrooms, rice, eggs, or sweet fillings like fruit or jam
What to Expect
Pirozhki are typically baked or fried and filled with a variety of ingredients. They are popular as street food or home-cooked snacks, often served with tea. The dough is light and fluffy, and the fillings range from savory to sweet.
Regional Variations
- Kazan Pirozhki: In Kazan, pirozhki are often filled with rice and meat, flavored with spices like cumin and saffron.
9. Kvass
Why It’s Important
Kvass is a traditional Russian fermented beverage, often described as a “bread drink” due to its base ingredients. It’s mildly alcoholic (usually under 1% alcohol) and is commonly consumed in the summer.
Key Ingredients
- Rye bread
- Water
- Yeast
- Sugar or honey (for sweetness)
What to Expect
Kvass has a slightly tangy, effervescent taste, often compared to kombucha or a light beer. It’s traditionally served cold and is refreshing, especially in the hot summer months.
Conclusion
Russian cuisine is as diverse and rich as the country itself. From hearty soups like borscht and shchi to unique dishes like pelmeni and kholodets, there’s something for every palate. As you explore Russia, these traditional dishes offer not only a taste of the country’s culinary traditions but also an insight into its culture and history. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet village, make sure to try as many of these iconic dishes as possible during your visit.
