Traditional Russian Food

January 21, 2020 Culture

Imagine you’re doing a live video chat with your Russian lady. Everything seems to be going well until she starts talking about her favorite traditional Russian food. You look like a deer in headlights because you don’t know exactly what she’s talking about. Instantly, there is a disconnect and she doesn’t feel as close to you as she had hoped. Wouldn’t you like to change how this conversation goes? To be charming is to be knowledgeable. She is more than her looks and culture is a very big part of her life. Make sure you are involved in this area of her world.

Every culture has its own unique food that makes it more diverse. What type of traditional Russian food sets this country apart from the rest?

Pelmeni

First on the list of traditional Russian food is Pelmeni. It is a dumpling filled with meat and one of the most popular foods in Russia. Usually made in the winter, it can be conveniently frozen, fried or boiled for food on-demand. It is so easy to cook that it’s commonly known as a dish for bachelors.

Although it can be fried, most Russians will choose to boil the Pelmeni. If ever purchased from the store, be sure that they are frozen. Pelmeni is usually eaten at dinner and can be served with sour cream.

Blini

Another traditional Russian food is Blini. These pancakes are mostly regular flour and are served with sour cream, smoked salmon or caviar. Traditionally, it is eaten on Maslenitsa, which is celebrated the eight week before Orthodox Pascha.. Not only does Maslenitsa celebrate the beginning of Spring, but it also recognizes God Volos (God of Animals).

This food is versatile, as you can eat it warm or cold. Blini may be served as an appetizer at a restaurant today, but it used to be a ritual food served as an offering to the deceased. We bet you’re really hungry now.

Paskha/Paska

Then, there is the traditional Russian food of Paskha/Paska. It contains food that is forbidden during Lent. This creamy pudding has raisins and is traditionally imprinted with X B. These initials represent the words Христос воскрес, which translate to Christ has risen.

Typically, this dish is made and eaten only during the Easter holiday. During Holy Week, it is brought to church and blessed on Easter.The main ingredient is tvorog, which is a cheese curd. These are very common in Russia. You may also add nuts, chocolate, nutmeg or cinnamon to this recipe, just to name a few.

Smetana

No Russian dish is complete without being topped with smetana. This sour cream is made by souring heavy cream and is basically Russia’s national condiment.

It goes well with most garlic and onion dishes as opposed to spicy foods.

Now, when your Russian woman starts sharing her favorite traditional Russian food with you, you’ll be more equipped for conversation. You can even share with her how American foods are similar or different to her favorites. A conversation like this really makes bonding with your Russian beauty seamless.

Want to learn more about traditional Russian food? Click here to find out more. And if you need a little help with getting a date online, we’ve got you covered.