Ukrainian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and traditions that warmly welcome anyone who tries it. The rich history behind each dish adds a special charm, making them not just meals, but experiences to savor. Cooking Ukrainian food at home is easier than you might think, and the results are simply irresistible!
Varenyky (Dumplings)


Varenyky (Ukrainian Dumplings) from Recipes From Europe
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 2 h 10 min Total Time: 2 h 10 min.
Varenyky are soft, delicious dumplings that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a favorite comfort food in Ukraine. The dough is tender, while the fillings can range from sweet to savory, offering a delightful surprise with every bite. Cooking them involves boiling the dumplings until they float, which means they’re ready to be enjoyed!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Filling of your choice (potatoes, cheese, cherries, etc.)
What makes varenyky so special is their versatility. You can customize the fillings to suit your taste, whether you prefer savory mashed potatoes or sweet cherries. They’re often served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fried onions, making them a beloved dish for any occasion!
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Borscht (Beet Soup)


Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) from Natasha's Kitchen
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Ribs, tomato sauce, dill, chicken broth, red bell pepper Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.

Classic Beet Borscht from The Kitchn
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Beef chuck roast, red cabbage, sour cream, red wine vinegar, brown sugar Total Time: 2 hr.

Ukrainian Red Borscht Soup from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Sour cream, pork sausage, tomato paste, carrots, diced tomatoes Total Time: 1 hr 5 min.
Borscht is a vibrant, hearty soup that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The deep red color from the beets makes it visually stunning, while the blend of vegetables and a hint of vinegar give it a unique flavor profile you won’t forget. Cooking borscht is a labor of love, with simmering vegetables creating a rich and comforting broth.
- 2 medium beets, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 potato, diced
- 4 cups vegetable or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
This soup is not only a staple in Ukrainian households but also a dish that brings family and friends together around the table. Each spoonful is a comforting hug, and it’s often served with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, elevating the flavors even more. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day!
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Holodets (Meat Jell-O)


Russian Holodets Meat Jelly Recipe from Melanie Cooks
Ingredients: Chicken feet, chicken thighs, using chicken legs, bay leaves

Ukrainian Aspic Recipe (Kholodets) from Natasha's Kitchen
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Chicken drumsticks, mustard, lb pork legs, carrot, celery Total Time: 7 hr.

Russian Kholodets from That’s What She Had
Ingredients: Chicken feet, ham hocks, chicken necks, black, garlic
Holodets is a dish that might surprise you with its unique texture and flavor. This savory meat jelly is made by simmering meat and bones until the broth gels, creating a delicacy that’s both fancy and comforting. It’s served cold, making it a refreshing addition to any meal or a perfect appetizer at gatherings.
- 2 pounds pork or beef bones
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garlic (optional, for flavor)
What sets holodets apart is its cultural significance and the nostalgia it brings. Families often gather to prepare this dish, passing down recipes through generations. It’s best enjoyed with a side of mustard or horseradish for a flavorful kick!
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Deruny (Potato Pancakes)

Deruny (Ukrainian Potato Pancakes) from Budget Bytes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Russet potatoes, eggs, all purpose flour, black pepper Total Time: 50 min.

Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes from Natasha's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Sour cream, potatoes, egg, all purpose flour Total Time: 23 min.

Deruny (Ukrainian Potato Pancakes) from Olga in the Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Egg, baking soda, grapeseed oil, all purpose flour, yukon potatoes Total Time: 23 min.
Deruny are crispy potato pancakes that are golden brown and oh-so-delicious. They have a crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, making them a perfect side dish or snack. Frying them until they’re perfectly crispy is the secret to making these pancakes irresistible!
- 4 medium potatoes, grated
- 1 onion, grated
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
These pancakes are loved for their simplicity and comfort. Often served with sour cream or applesauce, they make for a great addition to brunch or a hearty dinner. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up leftover potatoes!
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Kyiv Chicken (Chicken Kyiv)

Chicken Kyiv from Milk Street
Ingredients: Ground chicken, parmesan cheese, eggs, cayenne pepper, lemon zest

Chicken Kiev from RecipeTin Eats
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Chicken breast, egg, flour, salted butter, panko breadcrumbs Total Time: 1 hr.

Chef John's Chicken Kiev from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Boneless chicken breast, panko bread crumbs, eggs, garlic, cayenne pepper Total Time: 1 hr 50 min.
Chicken Kyiv is a classic dish that features tender chicken breast wrapped around a flavorful herb butter filling. When you cut into it, the melted butter oozes out, creating a rich and mouthwatering experience. The chicken is breaded and fried to perfection, giving it a satisfying crunch.
- 2 chicken breasts
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
This dish is not only a staple in Ukrainian cuisine but also a symbol of the country’s culinary legacy. It’s often served with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, making it a delightful dinner option. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more!
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Pampushky (Garlic Bread Rolls)

Pampushky Recipe (Ukrainian Garlic Bread) from Fine Foods Blog
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 12 h 5 min Total Time: 12 h 5 min.

Pampushky, Ukraine Garlic Bread from Eat The Love
Rating: 4.4. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
Pampushky are soft, fluffy rolls that are often served with borscht, making them an essential part of Ukrainian meals. These little delights are brushed with garlic and herb oil, giving them a fragrant aroma and irresistible flavor. Baking them until they’re golden brown creates a perfect complement to any soup or stew.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Pampushky are beloved for their buttery flavor and soft texture. They’re perfect for soaking up the delicious broth from borscht or enjoying on their own with a little extra garlic oil. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so you’ll want to whip up a batch every time you cook soup!