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15 Best Russian Foods to Try

Take a culinary tour across the center of Russia as we reveal the country’s Best Traditional Russian Food, a culinary mosaic.

Traditional Russian shashlik

Every dish in Russian cuisine, from the well-known borscht, a colorful beet soup that dances on the tongue, to the filling pelmeni, small pockets of ecstasy loaded with savory delights, is a tribute to the rich heritage and wide range of flavors that make Russian food unique. Savor the smokey appeal of perfectly grilled shashlik or indulge in the buttery layers of a well baked piroshki.

This article invites you to experience the essence of tradition one mouthful at a time by providing your passport to the heartwarming and filling realm of Russian culinary marvels.

Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a rich and comforting dish that brings together tender strips of sirloin beef, earthy mushrooms, and caramelized onions in a smooth, creamy sauce. The combination of sour cream and seasonings creates a velvety texture that coats every bite, balancing the deep, savory flavors of the beef with a slight tanginess. The mushrooms add a mild, nutty undertone, making the dish even more satisfying.

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, allowing the sauce to soak into the soft, buttery base. The creamy texture of the potatoes enhances the overall richness, creating a meal that feels hearty and fulfilling. For those who prefer a different pairing, pasta or rice also work well, as they absorb the flavors of the sauce while adding their own comforting touch.

No matter how it is served, Beef Stroganoff remains a staple of Russian cuisine, known for its smooth, savory character. The combination of tender meat and flavorful sauce makes it a popular choice for both home-cooked meals and restaurant dining. Each spoonful offers a balance of textures and flavors, making it a dish that is both simple and deeply satisfying.

Blini

Blini

Blini are light, thin crepes with a slightly sweet flavor, making them perfect for both sweet and savory toppings. Made with eggs, milk, flour, salt, and sugar, they have a soft texture with a delicate crisp around the edges. Their mild taste pairs well with honey, jam, or even smoked salmon and sour cream.

Though simple to prepare, they take time to cook, requiring patience to achieve the perfect golden color. Each bite is soft and comforting, ideal for breakfast or a snack.

Originating from Russia’s Crepe Week over a century ago, blini remain a cherished dish enjoyed by many.

Kasha

Kasha

Kasha is a simple yet hearty dish made from buckwheat grains, offering a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture. It is a popular choice for breakfast, often served with milk for a warm and comforting start to the day. The natural earthiness of buckwheat pairs well with a touch of sweetness from honey or fresh fruit, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Cooking kasha is easy, requiring just water, salt, and buckwheat. The grains absorb the liquid as they cook, softening while still maintaining a slight bite. This creates a wholesome dish that can be enjoyed in various ways.

Beyond breakfast, kasha is also served as a side for dinner, often paired with butter or sautéed onions for extra flavor. It is a staple in Russian households, appreciated for its simplicity and versatility.

Okroshka

Okroshka

Okroshka is a refreshing cold soup, ideal for warm days when a light yet flavorful meal is needed. Made with crisp cucumbers, peppery radishes, tender potatoes, and boiled eggs, it offers a mix of textures with every spoonful. Fresh herbs like dill or chives enhance the aroma, adding a fragrant touch that complements the mild vegetables.

Traditionally, okroshka is prepared with a base of kvass, a fermented bread drink, or kefir for a creamy twist. The tangy, slightly sour broth balances the freshness of the ingredients, creating a unique and cooling sensation. It is both nourishing and satisfying.

Though not always a favorite among children, okroshka is a great choice for gatherings. Its bright flavors and chilled temperature make it an excellent summer dish, bringing a light yet fulfilling element to any meal.

Pelmeni

Pelmeni

Pelmeni are delicate dumplings filled with seasoned ground beef or pork, offering a savory bite wrapped in a thin, tender dough. The filling is lightly spiced, enhancing the meat’s natural richness while keeping the texture juicy and soft. When boiled, the dumplings absorb the flavors of the broth, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

Often served with a dollop of sour cream or melted butter, pelmeni have a smooth, silky exterior that pairs perfectly with the creamy topping. Some enjoy them with vinegar or mustard for an extra tangy kick, adding depth to their mild, meaty taste.

Pelmeni are a staple in Russian households, often prepared in large batches for special occasions. They are especially popular during winter and New Year’s Eve celebrations, bringing warmth and tradition to festive gatherings.

Shashlik

Shashlik

Shashlik is a well-loved grilled dish, featuring tender pieces of marinated lamb cooked over an open flame. The meat absorbs the smoky aroma while staying juicy and flavorful, thanks to a blend of onions, salt, pepper, paprika, and olive oil. Each bite is rich, with a slight char that enhances its depth.

The marination process allows the spices to infuse the lamb, making it both tender and fragrant. Grilled to perfection, the skewered meat develops a crisp exterior while remaining soft inside. The combination of flavors makes it a favorite for outdoor gatherings and festive meals.

Shashlik pairs well with a fresh green salad, balancing the smoky richness of the meat with a crisp, refreshing contrast. It is a staple at summer cookouts, enjoyed with family and friends.

Borscht

Borscht

Borscht is a rich, beet-based soup known for its deep red color and hearty texture. The natural sweetness of the beets blends with the savory flavors of cabbage, potatoes, and stewed beef, creating a well-balanced dish. Carrots and onions add a subtle depth, while the broth remains light yet satisfying.

Each spoonful offers a mix of tender vegetables and soft, flavorful beef, making it both nourishing and comforting. The slight tanginess from a splash of vinegar or sour cream enhances the earthy taste of the beets, giving the soup a unique and memorable flavor.

Served warm or chilled, borscht is enjoyed by people of all ages in Russia. It is a staple in homes, schools, and gatherings, often accompanied by fresh bread or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Pirozhki

Pirozhki

Pirozhki are golden, flaky buns filled with a warm and savory cabbage mixture, making them a satisfying treat, especially during colder months. The dough is soft yet slightly crisp on the outside, providing a delicate contrast to the tender filling inside. The mild sweetness of the baked dough pairs well with the earthy taste of cabbage, creating a balanced flavor.

The cabbage filling is often sautéed with onions and seasoned lightly to enhance its natural richness. As the buns bake, the aroma fills the kitchen, making them an inviting choice for gatherings or a cozy meal at home.

Pirozhki are a staple in Eastern European cuisine, enjoyed as an appetizer or snack. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated, they remain a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any occasion.

Shchi

Shchi

Shchi is a hearty cabbage soup with a rich, comforting taste, making it a perfect dish for cold winter days. The broth, made with either chicken or beef, develops a deep flavor as it simmers, blending with garlic, carrots, onions, and potatoes. The cabbage adds a slight sweetness, balancing the savory elements of the soup.

Slow cooking allows the ingredients to soften, creating a thick, satisfying texture. A spoonful of sour cream on top enhances the flavors, adding a creamy touch that complements the broth’s warmth. Every bite is both nourishing and filling, making it a beloved dish in Russian homes.

Shchi has been a staple in Russia since the 9th century, introduced after cabbage arrived from Turkey. Over time, it has remained a favorite, enjoyed for its simplicity and wholesome taste.

Ukha

Ukha

Ukha is a light yet flavorful fish soup with a delicate balance of savory and tangy notes. Made with fresh salmon and cod, the broth absorbs the rich flavors of the fish while remaining clear and refreshing. The addition of onions, potatoes, and carrots brings a subtle sweetness, enhancing the depth of the dish.

The soup is often simmered slowly, allowing the fish to become tender and infused with the stock’s essence. A touch of herbs or lemon juice adds a mild sourness, giving it a distinct and refreshing taste. It is both warming and satisfying, perfect for colder months.

Ukha has been a staple in Russian cuisine since the 12th century, enjoyed in both restaurants and homes. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, its comforting and aromatic qualities make it a timeless favorite.

Solyanka

Solyanka

Solyanka is a rich, tangy soup with a bold combination of flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. The broth, infused with sausages, chicken, and vegetables, has a slightly smoky depth balanced by the sharpness of pickles and olives. Each spoonful offers a mix of savory, salty, and mildly sour notes.

The texture is thick and hearty, with tender pieces of meat and vegetables absorbing the broth’s complex taste. A dollop of sour cream adds a smooth, creamy contrast, while fresh dill enhances the aroma. The result is a warming dish perfect for any time of the year.

Traditionally served with rye bread, solyanka has been enjoyed in Russia since the 15th century. Its bold flavors and filling ingredients make it a favorite for those seeking a deeply satisfying and flavorful soup.

Ikra

Ikra

Ikra is a rich and flavorful vegetable spread, often called a “poor man’s caviar” due to its smooth texture and deep taste. The roasted eggplants form the base, giving it a slightly smoky and earthy flavor. Bell peppers, carrots, and onions add sweetness, while garlic and tomato sauce provide a hint of tanginess.

The ingredients are slowly cooked together until they blend into a soft, spreadable consistency. The natural sweetness of the vegetables balances with the mild acidity of the tomato sauce, creating a well-rounded taste. It is both light and satisfying, perfect as a side or appetizer.

Originally from Ukraine, ikra has become a favorite across Russia and Eastern Europe. It is commonly served with fresh bread or crackers, making it a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal.

Syrniki

Syrniki

Syrniki are soft, cheesy pancakes with a lightly crisp exterior and a tender, creamy center. Made with farmer’s cheese, flour, eggs, and a touch of sugar, they have a mild sweetness that pairs well with various toppings. When cooked, they develop a golden crust while remaining rich and fluffy inside.

The slightly tangy flavor of the cheese balances the sweetness, making them satisfying without being too heavy. They are often served with sour cream, jam, or honey, enhancing their delicate taste. Each bite offers a perfect mix of crispness and smooth, velvety texture.

A favorite breakfast in Russia, syrniki are quick to prepare and easy to customize. Whether pan-fried or made in an air fryer, they are a warm, comforting treat for any morning.

Kholodets

Kholodets

Kholodets is a savory meat jelly with a rich, concentrated flavor, making it a unique and traditional Russian dish. The slow-cooked broth, made from ham hocks, chicken necks, and feet, develops a deep, meaty taste as the natural gelatin thickens it into a firm, smooth texture. Garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns add a subtle warmth and aroma.

Once chilled, the dish takes on a jelly-like consistency, preserving the tender meat within. The balance of salt and spices enhances its bold, umami-rich flavor. It is often served cold with mustard or horseradish to add a bit of sharpness.

A staple at Russian holiday tables, kholodets is especially popular on Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Though its texture may be unusual to some, it remains a well-loved dish, passed down through generations.

Pashka (Russian Easter Dessert)

Pashka (Russian Easter Dessert)

Pashka is a creamy, sweet dessert traditionally enjoyed during Easter in Russia. Made with ricotta or farmer’s cheese, it has a smooth, velvety texture with a delicate balance of sweetness and tanginess. Dried fruits like figs, currants, and pears add natural sweetness, while lemon and orange rinds provide a bright, citrusy aroma.

The mixture is carefully pressed into a mold and refrigerated for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. The result is a rich and dense treat, often decorated with nuts or candied fruit. Its slightly grainy yet creamy consistency makes each bite enjoyable.

Though it requires time to set, pashka is a festive favorite that brings a refreshing sweetness to holiday celebrations. Traditionally served with bread or on its own, it remains a cherished part of Russian Easter traditions.

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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