Ukrainian cuisine is all about comfort, tradition, and rich flavors. Many dishes have been passed down through generations, bringing families together around the table. If you’re new to Ukrainian food, here are some must-try dishes that represent the heart of this delicious and hearty cuisine.
🥟 Varenyky (Ukrainian Dumplings)
Varenyky are one of the most iconic Ukrainian dishes. These soft, doughy dumplings can be filled with a variety of ingredients, both savory and sweet. Popular fillings include:
✔ Potatoes & cheese – creamy and comforting
✔ Сabbage – slightly tangy and rich
✔ Mushrooms – earthy and flavorful
✔ Cherries or berries – a sweet treat often enjoyed with sugar or sour cream
Varenyky are often served with butter, sour cream, or fried onions, making them a cozy and satisfying meal. This dish has been a part of Ukrainian culture for centuries, often prepared for family gatherings, holidays, or simply as a comforting everyday meal.
Borscht
Borscht is a traditional Ukrainian soup made primarily from beets, which give it its vibrant red color. It typically includes ingredients such as cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and sometimes beans or meat, all simmered in a flavorful broth. The soup is often served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
Borscht holds a special place in Ukrainian cuisine as a symbol of hospitality, family gatherings, and cultural heritage, enjoyed both in everyday meals and on festive occasions.
Holubtsi (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
Holubtsi, or stuffed cabbage rolls, are another beloved Ukrainian classic. These are made by wrapping cabbage leaves around a filling of rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat, then simmering them in a flavorful tomato sauce.
Holubtsi are often served at celebrations and holidays, as they symbolize prosperity and family unity. The vegetarian version, made with mushrooms and rice, is especially popular during fasting periods and Christmas Eve dinner.
Deruny (Potato Pancakes)
If you love crispy potatoes, deruny will become your new favorite! These golden potato pancakes are made by grating potatoes, mixing them with a bit of flour, onion, and eggs, and frying them until crispy.
They are typically served with sour cream or garlic sauce, making them a simple yet incredibly delicious comfort food. Deruny are especially popular in rural Ukrainian households, where potatoes are a staple ingredient.
Chicken Kyiv
One of Ukraine’s most famous dishes worldwide, Chicken Kyiv is a crispy, breaded chicken cutlet with a surprise inside—a buttery garlic and herb filling that melts when cut.
Though this dish has a somewhat disputed history, it became a symbol of Ukrainian hospitality and fine cooking. Today, Chicken Kyiv is enjoyed in homes and restaurants worldwide as a delicious and elegant meal.
Why You Should Try Ukrainian Cuisine
Ukrainian food is hearty, flavorful, and full of tradition. Every dish tells a story—whether it’s about family gatherings, holiday feasts, or the simple joys of home-cooked meals.
If you want to experience these traditional flavors, try making them at home or explore authentic Ukrainian food from places like Ukrainian Flavors, where you can order ready-to-cook frozen varenyky, holubtsi, and more! 💛🥟
