Exploring Ukrainian Cuisine: A Personal Journey and Delicious Discoveries
Ukrainian cuisine is a vibrant and hearty food tradition that has roots in both historical and cultural contexts. Born in Lithuania during the Soviet era, I have had the opportunity to experience a wide range of Soviet dishes influential in Ukraine. This exposure, combined with my recent work in Eastern Ukraine, has given me a new perspective on Ukrainian food culture. In this article, I will share my experiences and discoveries, highlighting the rich and diverse flavors of Ukrainian cuisine.
Flavors of Ukrainian Cuisine
The first Ukrainian dish that stands out in my memory is a delightful dish made with raw fish and onions. This hrechka selische, or herring and onion appetizer, is a simple yet incredibly flavorful delicacy. It reflects the rich and complex flavors that are a hallmark of Ukrainian cooking.
In Lviv, I also savored a delicious cherry liquor that many Ukrainians are proud of. While I can’t recall the exact brand, the quality of the liquor was unmatched. This experience strongly reinforces my belief that Ukrainian culinary tradition deserves more recognition beyond just traditional dishes.
Hearty and Filling Dishes
One of the best soups I have tasted is borscht. This hearty and comforting dish is not just a staple in Ukrainian cuisine but a symbol of the country's rich culinary heritage. The flavors are complex, with a mix of vegetable and sour cream, which provides a perfect balance of tartness and richness. Borscht is not just a soup; it is a meal in itself, making me feel great after every bowl.
A Personal Journey Through Ukrainian Cuisine
Throughout my life, I have encountered Ukrainian cuisine both in a professional and personal capacity. Growing up in Lithuania during the Soviet era, I was exposed to a variety of Soviet dishes that are prevalent in Ukraine, such as borscht, shashlyk, pierogi, and plov (Azerbaijani rice dish). The Soviet influence is undeniable, but Ukrainian cuisine has its unique elements that shine through.
In 2016, I had the opportunity to work for a humanitarian NGO in Eastern Ukraine, which allowed me to delve deeper into the local culinary traditions. I have cooked shashlyk near the Kurakhovo Lake, just 30 km from occupied Donetsk. A simple yet fulfilling dish, shashlyk is a meat skewer marinated in spices and grilled over coals. The taste and aroma of shashlyk made it a memorable experience.
A Balanced Perspective of Ukrainian Dishes
Ukrainian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and while many dishes are hearty and satisfying, some can be more challenging for personal tastes. Salo, a type of salted and cured pork fat, is a popular spread in Ukraine but can take some getting used to. Similarly, fermented foods like sauerkraut and surklytoky (pork head cheese) are staples, but not everyone enjoys these.
A dish that has always been confusing to me is okroshka. This Russian-inspired soup is typically a mix of sour kefir, potatoes, and various vegetables, often garnished with boiled eggs. While many find it tasty, my friend and I often joked about how it was a rather off-putting combination of flavors and visuals. Despite its lack of appeal, it remains a beloved dish in Ukrainian cuisine.
Market and Cultural Experiences
Living in Ukraine provided me with the opportunity to explore the local markets and supermarkets. One of the things I enjoyed the most was the abundance of fresh and affordable produce. You could find a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, from vyshnia (cherry) vodkas to fresh kaporie (oysters) during Valentine's Day. Local delicacies like blood sausages, pork head sausages, and liver curst are unique to the region and offer a taste of traditional Ukrainian cuisine.
Conclusion
Ukrainian cuisine is a blend of historical and modern influences, making it a unique and vibrant culinary experience. While some dishes require an acquired taste, the flavors and aromas of borscht, shashlyk, and other staples make Ukrainian food worth exploring. If you get the chance to try Ukrainian cuisine, I highly recommend it. It is a delightful and satisfying journey into a rich and diverse culinary tradition.