What Do Russians Eat At Christmas?

Christmas is a joyous time of year for many people, and it’s especially joyous in Russia. This is because it’s the biggest holiday of the year, and it’s celebrated with a wide variety of traditional foods. Russians enjoy traditional dishes that they have been making for centuries and they take great pride in their cultural heritage. So what type of food can you expect to eat if you join a Russian family on Christmas Day? Read on to find out!

Traditional Russian Dishes

The traditional food served in Russia at Christmas time is based on the Orthodox Christian calendar. This means that some of the dishes may be specific to the region where they are eaten. But there are some dishes that are popular throughout the country. These include:

Kutia – This is a dish made with boiled wheat berries that are mixed with honey, nuts, dried fruit, and poppy seeds.

Pelmeni – These are small dumplings filled with minced meat, usually beef or pork. It’s a very popular dish throughout Russia.

Borscht – This is a soup made from beets, cabbage, potatoes, and other vegetables. It’s often served with sour cream.

Vareniki – This is another type of dumpling, usually filled with potato and mushrooms or cheese.

Meat Dishes

The main meat dish served at Christmas in Russia is usually roast pork. This is usually served with mashed potatoes and gravy, as well as pickled vegetables. The pork can also be served with horseradish sauce or mustard. Another popular meat dish is roasted duck, which is often served with sauerkraut. Salted herring is also served as part of the main course.

Soups and Salads

Soups and salads are also popular at Christmas in Russia. Shchi is a traditional cabbage soup that is usually served with onions and carrots. Fish soup is also popular, and it’s usually made with fresh white fish. Salads include Olivier salad, which is made with potatoes, eggs, and pickles, and Vinegret, which is a vegetarian salad made with beets, potatoes, and onions.

Sweets and Desserts

Sweets and desserts are an important part of the Christmas feast in Russia. Krendel is a traditional sweet bread that is often served with honey and jam. Pashka is a cheese dessert made with ricotta and raisins, and it’s often served with poppy seeds. Fruit cakes and meringues are also popular desserts. Finally, one of the most popular Christmas treats is the gingerbread house, which is traditionally decorated with candy and icing.

If you’re lucky enough to join a Russian family on Christmas Day, you’ll be treated to some truly delicious and traditional dishes. From kutia and pelmeni to roasted pork and meringue, you’ll be able to experience the flavors of Russia at its finest.

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