We sat down with Tetiana, the owner of Ukrainian Flavors, to talk about the dishes Ukrainian-American families chose for their Christmas celebrations this year. Her warmth and passion for sharing Ukrainian culinary traditions were evident as she shared stories, memories, and insights about what makes these meals so special.
Q: Tetiana, what dishes did Ukrainian-American families mostly choose for their Christmas celebrations this year?
“Many families went for the classics,” Tetiana begins with a smile. “Holubtsi—stuffed cabbage rolls—were very popular, both vegetarian and with beef. There’s something about these tender rolls stewed in a rich tomato sauce that makes them perfect for a festive dinner. They bring warmth to the table and remind people of the home-cooked meals they grew up with.”
She adds, “Another favorite was deruny—crispy potato pancakes. They’re simple, but when served with sour cream, they’re hard to resist. And of course, you can’t have a Ukrainian Christmas without varenyky! Families loved the variety we offered—potato, potato with mushrooms, potato with fried bacon, and the more traditional sauerkraut filling. These dumplings are a symbol of comfort and tradition, perfect for the holiday season.”
Q: How do you think these dishes contribute to the holiday atmosphere?
Tetiana pauses thoughtfully. “I think they bring a sense of connection—to family, to culture, and to traditions. Christmas is a time when people want to feel close to their roots. Our dishes help create that feeling of home, even for those who may be far from it. There’s something deeply comforting about gathering around the table, sharing familiar flavors, and telling stories. It’s like bringing a piece of Ukraine to the heart of an American home.”
Q: Were there any stories shared by customers about why they chose these dishes?
“Oh, yes!” Tetiana laughs softly. “Many people told us how their parents or grandparents used to make these dishes during the holidays, and they wanted to recreate that experience for their own children. It’s beautiful to hear how food becomes a way to keep family traditions alive. Some even shared how they’re learning to cook these dishes with their kids so that the recipes are passed down to the next generation.”
Q: Why do you think dishes like holubtsi, deruny, and varenyky resonate so strongly during Christmas?
“There’s something about these dishes that feels festive yet familiar,” Tetiana explains. “They’re hearty, flavorful, and made to be shared. Holubtsi and varenyky take time to prepare, so there’s often a whole family involved in making them. That process of cooking together brings people closer—it’s not just about the meal, it’s about the experience of making it with loved ones.”
Q: Any final thoughts on what Ukrainian Flavors brings to the table during the holidays?
“I think what we offer is more than just food,” Tetiana says warmly. “It’s a way for people to feel connected to their heritage and loved ones, especially during such an important time of the year. Whether it’s someone ordering for a family gathering or sending these dishes as a gift to a friend, it’s about creating that atmosphere of warmth, comfort, and home.”
She finishes with a smile, “We’re proud to be part of that—to help people celebrate the holidays with a taste of Ukraine, wherever they may be.”
Whether it’s holubtsi, deruny, or varenyky, Ukrainian Flavors continues to bring authentic Ukrainian dishes to the tables of Ukrainian-American families, making each celebration memorable and meaningful.
