An authentic Ukrainian recipe from the Poltava region
If you ask someone from central Ukraine what dessert reminds them of Makoviya (the Honey Festival), there's a good chance they'll answer Shulyky.
Shulyky are one of the oldest traditional Ukrainian desserts, especially popular in the Poltava region. They are made from simple baked flatbread that is broken into pieces and generously covered with a sweet mixture of ground poppy seeds and fragrant honey. With just a few everyday ingredients, this humble dessert captures the flavors of late summer and has been enjoyed by Ukrainian families for generations.
Today, many families prepare Shulyky on Makoviya, but they're delicious any time you want to experience a true taste of Ukrainian home cooking.
Ingredients for the Flatbread
- 200 ml (6.8 fl oz / about ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon) kefir, at room temperature
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons (25 g / 0.9 oz) sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (level)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) sunflower oil, or another neutral vegetable oil
- 450-500 g (15.9-17.6 oz / 3¾-4¼ cups) all-purpose flour
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 200 ml (6.8 fl oz) of room-temperature kefir with 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Let the mixture sit for 1-2 minutes until it begins to foam.
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Add 1 egg, 2 tablespoons (25 g / 0.9 oz) of sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) of sunflower oil. Whisk until well combined.
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Gradually add 450-500 g (15.9-17.6 oz / 3¾-4¼ cups) of sifted flour, mixing a little at a time until a soft, elastic dough forms. The dough should be smooth and no longer stick to your hands.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large sheet about 7-9 mm (¼-⅜ inch) thick.
- Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly score the surface with a knife in a crisscross pattern, or prick it all over with a fork. This helps the flatbread bake evenly and prevents large air bubbles from forming.
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Bake in a preheated 180°C (350°F) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Let the flatbread cool completely, then break it into small bite-sized pieces. These pieces are traditionally called lamantsi and are ready to be mixed with the sweet honey and poppy seed topping.
Step 2: Prepare the poppy seed mixture
- Place the poppy seeds in a bowl and cover them with boiling water.
- Let them soak for about 20 minutes.
- Drain thoroughly.
- Grind the poppy seeds using a food processor, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle until they become moist and creamy.
- Stir in the honey, hot water, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Shulyky
- Break the baked flatbread into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the pieces into a large serving bowl.
- Pour the honey and poppy seed mixture over the bread.
- Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
Serve immediately while slightly warm, or let the flavors soak into the bread for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Shulyky
- Use good-quality raw honey for the richest flavor.
- Freshly ground poppy seeds make a big difference in both texture and aroma.
- Don't overbake the flatbread. It should be lightly crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside.
- If the mixture seems too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until it coats the bread easily.
- Some families sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top for extra crunch.
Traditional Tip: If you prefer a softer, more porridge-like texture, pour a small amount of cooled boiled water over the flatbread after adding the honey and poppy seed mixture. Let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid and become tender. Many families in the Poltava region enjoy Shulyky prepared this way.
Serving Suggestions
Shulyky are traditionally enjoyed with:
- herbal tea
- fresh summer berries
- warm milk
- homemade fruit compote
They also make a wonderful dessert after a family dinner or a sweet afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
A Taste of Ukrainian Tradition
Shulyky remind us that the best recipes are often the simplest. Flour, honey, and poppy seeds come together to create a dessert that has been enjoyed in Ukrainian homes for centuries.
This traditional Poltava recipe is a delicious way to bring a little piece of Ukraine into your kitchen.
