Ukrainian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors that warm the heart and fill the belly. Each dish tells a story, often passed down through generations, connecting family and tradition. Let’s explore some quick recipes that promise to bring a comforting taste of Ukraine to your kitchen.
Varenyky (Ukrainian Dumplings)

Varenyky are delightful dumplings that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them incredibly versatile and satisfying. They are usually boiled and then sometimes pan-fried to get a lovely golden crust. Imagine biting into a soft dumpling bursting with flavors; it’s a warm hug on a plate!
- 2 cups flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed potatoes or farmer’s cheese (for filling)
- Butter (for frying, optional)
What makes varenyky so special is their ability to adapt to whatever you have on hand. In Ukraine, you can find them filled with potatoes, sour cherries, or even sweet cheese. They’re often served with a dollop of sour cream, making them a favorite comfort food that’s perfect for any meal!
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Borscht (Beet Soup)


Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) from Natasha's Kitchen
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 1 h 10 min Total Time: 1 h 10 min.

Ukrainian Red Borscht Soup from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 1 h 5 min Total Time: 1 h 5 min.
This vibrant beet soup is known for its rich color and earthy flavor. Borscht can be served hot or cold, and it’s packed full of nutrients. The combination of beets, cabbage, and other veggies creates a deliciously hearty dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
- 2 medium beets, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1/2 head of cabbage, shredded
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Dill (for garnish)
Borscht is loved not just for its taste, but also for its stunning color, making it a feast for the eyes as well. It’s often enjoyed as a starter or a main course and is a staple in many Ukrainian homes. The balance of sweet and sour flavors is what keeps people coming back for more, making it a dish that’s hard to resist!
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Holodets (Meat Jelly)

Holodets is a unique dish that might surprise you with its texture and flavor. This savory meat jelly is made by simmering meat and bones until it creates a gelatinous broth that solidifies when cooled. It’s a little bit of a culinary adventure, perfect for those who love trying new things!
- 1 kg pork or beef (with bones)
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bay leaves
This dish is often served cold and sliced into beautiful, wobbly pieces. Holodets is especially popular during holidays and family gatherings, adding a touch of tradition to the table. It’s a dish that sparks conversation and curiosity, making it a fun addition to any meal!
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Syrniki (Cheese Pancakes)

Syrniki Recipe (Russian Cheese Pancakes) from Babaganosh
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.

Russian Cheese Pancakes (Syrniki) from Allrecipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.
Syrniki are sweet, fluffy pancakes made from farmer’s cheese, and they are simply irresistible! These little gems are pan-fried to golden perfection, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve them with jam or sour cream for a delightful breakfast or dessert.
- 1 cup farmer’s cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Oil for frying
The beauty of syrniki lies in their simplicity and the comforting flavors that remind you of home. They are perfect for brunch with friends or as a sweet treat any time of day. Plus, they’re so quick to whip up that you might find yourself making them every weekend!
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Deruny (Potato Pancakes)

Deruny (Ukrainian Potato Pancakes) from Budget Bytes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.

Ukrainian Potato Pancakes (Deruny) Recipe from Fine Foods Blog
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.

Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes from Natasha's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 23 min Total Time: 23 min.
Deruny are crispy and golden potato pancakes that are a true Ukrainian comfort food. They are made from grated potatoes mixed with onions and eggs, then fried to perfection. Each bite is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them hard to resist!
- 4 medium potatoes, grated
- 1 onion, grated
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
What makes deruny so special is their versatility; they can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. Often accompanied by sour cream or applesauce, they bring a taste of home to any table. Their simplicity and heartiness make them a beloved dish in many Ukrainian households!
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Kyiv Chicken (Chicken Kyiv)
Chicken Kyiv is a classic dish that’s famous for its buttery filling and crispy coating. It’s a chicken breast stuffed with herb butter, then breaded and fried, resulting in a dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The first cut reveals a delightful buttery sauce that oozes out, creating a deliciously rich flavor.
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
This dish is often served with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Chicken Kyiv is not just a dish; it’s a piece of culinary history that represents the heart of Ukrainian cooking. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that’s truly unforgettable!
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Olivier Salad (Russian Salad)

Authentic Russian Salad 'Olivye' from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.

Olivier Potato Salad (Салат Оливье) from Momsdish
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 1 h 15 min Total Time: 1 h 15 min.
Olivier Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that’s a staple during celebrations and holidays. This festive salad is a mix of diced vegetables, meats, and a creamy dressing, making it a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. It’s like a party in a bowl that brings everyone together!
- 3 medium potatoes, boiled and diced
- 2 carrots, boiled and diced
- 1 cup peas (canned or frozen)
- 3 pickles, diced
- 1 cup cooked chicken or bologna, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
This salad is loved for its creamy texture and the way each ingredient complements the others. It’s often served during festive occasions, making it a dish that brings back joyful memories for many. With its colorful presentation, Olivier Salad adds a cheerful touch to any table!