15+ Ukrainian Recipes for Delicious Authentic Flavors

Ukrainian cuisine offers a rich blend of flavors and traditions that reflect its history and culture. These recipes provide a wonderful way to experience the warmth and heart of Ukrainian hospitality. Whether you are new to cooking or have some experience, you will find joy in preparing these dishes that often gather friends and family around the table.

From hearty soups to delightful pastries, the variety in Ukrainian recipes caters to many tastes. With fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques, these meals are not just about nourishment; they are about creating memories and sharing love through food.

1) Borscht – A hearty beet soup that warms the soul.

Borscht is a beloved dish in Ukraine and many Eastern European countries. This vibrant beet soup is not just colorful; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition.

You can customize your borscht with various ingredients. Common additions include cabbage, potatoes, and sometimes meat, like beef or pork. Garlic and dill enhance its taste, making it truly delightful.

Serve your borscht hot with a dollop of sour cream on top and a side of rye bread. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days, offering both warmth and satisfaction.

Ingredients

• Beets
• Cabbage
• Potatoes
• Carrots
• Garlic
• Dill
• Beef or pork (optional)
• Sour cream
• Rye bread

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and chop the beets, carrots, and potatoes.
2. In a large pot, add the chopped vegetables and cover with water.
3. Bring to a boil, then simmer until soft.
4. Stir in chopped cabbage and garlic.
5. Cook for 10-15 minutes more.
6. Add meat if desired and simmer until cooked.
7. Serve hot with sour cream and rye bread.

2) Varenyky – Also known as Ukrainian dumplings, filled with potatoes or cheese.

Varenyky are delicious Ukrainian dumplings that you can make at home. They are typically filled with a mix of potatoes and cheese, but you can also find sweet versions with fruits.

Preparing varenyky starts with a simple dough made from flour, water, and salt. Once the dough is ready, roll it out and cut it into circles.

For the filling, mash cooked potatoes and mix in cheese and onions. Place a small spoonful of filling in each dough circle, fold it, and pinch the edges to seal.

You can boil or pan-fry your varenyky until they are golden brown. Serve them hot with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh dill for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup cheese (like cottage cheese or cheddar)
• 1 onion (optional, sautéed)
• Sour cream (for serving)

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine flour and salt in a bowl.
2. Slowly add water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough and cut out circles.
4. In a separate bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheese, and onions.
5. Place filling on each dough circle and fold over.
6. Pinch the edges to seal.
7. Boil in salted water until they float, then cook for 3-5 minutes.
8. Serve with sour cream.

3) Holubtsi – Cabbage leaves stuffed with rice and meat

Holubtsi are delicious Ukrainian cabbage rolls filled with rice and meat. This comforting dish is perfect for family meals and special occasions. The combination of flavors makes it a hearty choice.

To prepare Holubtsi, you will need tender cabbage leaves. They are filled with a mixture of ground meat, like beef or pork, and rice. Seasoning is important to ensure each bite is flavorful.

These rolls are often simmered in a rich tomato sauce, which adds moisture and extra taste. You can find variations that include vegetables for a healthy twist.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 cup rice
• 1 pound ground meat (beef or pork)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the cabbage leaves for 2-3 minutes to soften them.
3. In a bowl, mix the ground meat, rice, diced onion, salt, and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll tightly.
5. Arrange the rolls in a baking dish and cover with tomato sauce.
6. Bake for about 60 minutes until cooked through.

4) Paska – Traditional Ukrainian Easter Bread

Paska is a sweet, festive bread often enjoyed during Easter celebrations in Ukraine. The word “Paska” means Easter, and this bread is a symbol of joy and renewal.

You will love its soft and airy texture, which makes it perfect for sharing with family. Traditionally, Paska is decorated with intricate designs, adding to its beauty as a centerpiece on the holiday table.

To make Paska, you need a few simple ingredients that are easy to find. It’s best enjoyed fresh, often paired with cream cheese or butter.

Ingredients

• 2 cups warm milk
• 6 eggs
• 1 tablespoon yeast
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 sticks melted butter
• 6 cups flour
• A pinch of salt
• Lemon zest (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast.
2. Add eggs, sugar, melted butter, and mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, then knead until smooth.
4. Let the dough rise for about an hour in a warm place.
5. Shape the dough, place it in a baking tin, and let it rise again.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-50 minutes.
7. Allow to cool before serving.

5) Syrniki – Fried quark pancakes that are perfect for breakfast

Syrniki are delicious fried pancakes made with quark or farmer’s cheese. They are a popular breakfast treat in Ukraine and Russia. These pancakes are slightly sweet and have a fluffy texture.

To make syrniki, you will need simple ingredients like cheese, flour, and eggs. They are easy to prepare and cook quickly in a skillet. Serve them warm with jam or sour cream for a delightful breakfast.

These pancakes are not only tasty but also a great way to start your day. You can also get creative by adding fruit or sweet spices to the batter.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240g) quark or farmer’s cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Pinch of salt
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the cheese, egg, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually stir in the flour until combined.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
4. Scoop small portions of the mixture and shape them into pancakes.
5. Fry each pancake for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Serve with your favorite toppings.

6) Kutia – A sweet Christmas pudding made with wheatberries.

Kutia is a traditional Ukrainian Christmas pudding made with sweet wheat berries. It is a cherished dish enjoyed during festive celebrations. This pudding is usually sweetened with honey and topped with nuts and dried fruits.

To prepare kutia, you will cook whole wheat berries until they are tender. After that, mix in ingredients like honey, poppy seeds, and walnuts for flavor and texture.

This dish not only tastes great but also has a special meaning during the holiday season. Families come together to share kutia, honoring their traditions and celebrating life.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cleaned wheat berries
• 3-4 quarts water
• 1 cup cleaned poppy seeds
• ⅓ cup honey
• ⅓ cup sugar
• ½ cup hot water
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or other nuts
• Dried fruits (like raisins or apricots)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the wheat berries under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine wheat berries with water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer until berries are tender, about 1-2 hours.
4. Strain and let cool.
5. In a separate bowl, mix poppy seeds, honey, and sugar.
6. Stir in the cooled wheat berries and nuts.
7. Serve garnished with dried fruits.

7) Kovbasa – Ukrainian sausage, rich and flavorful.

Kovbasa is a traditional Ukrainian sausage known for its rich flavor. It combines pork, spices, and plenty of garlic, making it a favorite in many homes.

You can enjoy it grilled, fried, or in stews. The taste is usually enhanced by a mix of herbs and spices. Each family may have their own special recipe.

Making kovbasa can be a fun activity. You get to prepare the meat and seasonings just as you like. Plus, filling the natural casings adds to the experience.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork (lean and fatty)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried bay leaves
• Natural hog casings (as needed)

Cooking Instructions

1. Coarsely grind the pork.
2. Mix in salt, pepper, garlic, and bay leaves.
3. Stuff the mixture into hog casings.
4. Twist sausages at intervals and tie off.
5. Cook in boiling water for 20-30 minutes at 175°F (80°C).

8) Nalistniki – Thin crepes often filled with cheese or jam.

Nalistniki are delicate Ukrainian crepes that you can fill with a variety of ingredients. They are often enjoyed with cheese or sweet jam. Their thin texture makes them easy to roll and delicious to eat.

To make the filling, you can use cottage cheese mixed with herbs or sweetened cream cheese. For a fruity twist, try using your favorite jam.

Cooking nalistniki is fun and can be a delightful experience. You’ll want to ensure your pan is hot and greased well for easy flipping. Serve them warm for the best flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Butter (for cooking)
• Cheese or jam (for filling)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix flour, eggs, milk, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C) and add a little butter.
3. Pour a small amount of batter and swirl to coat the pan.
4. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden, then flip and cook the other side.
5. Fill with cheese or jam, roll, and serve hot.

9) Babka – Sweet bread, sometimes flavored with raisins or chocolate.

Babka is a delicious sweet bread that is popular in Ukrainian cuisine. It has a rich dough that can be flavored with various ingredients, including chocolate or raisins.

This bread is often enjoyed during special occasions, especially Easter. It is light, buttery, and slightly sweet.

To make babka, you’ll start with yeast and allow it to rise. The dough is shaped and sometimes rolled with fillings, giving it a beautiful swirled look when baked.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions:

1. Warm the milk and mix in yeast until frothy.
2. In a bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and eggs.
3. Mix in the yeast mixture.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until smooth.
5. Let the dough rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
6. Shape the dough and add raisins or chocolate.
7. Place in a greased pan and let rise again.
8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes.

10) Pampushky – Soft garlic rolls, usually served with borscht.

Pampushky are delightful soft garlic rolls often enjoyed with borscht. Their fluffy texture and rich garlic flavor make them a favorite side dish in Ukrainian cuisine.

These rolls are usually topped with a mix of garlic and dill oil, which adds a pleasant taste. The sharpness of the garlic pairs well with the sweet beets in borscht.

Making pampushky is easy and fun. You’ll love serving them warm, fresh from the oven, alongside your bowl of borscht.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 packet of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Mix in flour, salt, and melted butter.
4. Knead until smooth and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Shape into rolls and let rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
7. Brush with garlic and dill oil before serving.

11) Deruny – Ukrainian potato pancakes, crispy and delicious

Deruny are traditional Ukrainian potato pancakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are beautifully seasoned and full of flavor. You can enjoy them as a snack or a side dish.

To make these pancakes, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Grating the potatoes finely helps achieve that perfect texture.

These pancakes are typically fried until golden brown, which gives them a delightful crunch. Serve them with sour cream for dipping, which adds a nice tang.

Ingredients

• 5 medium potatoes (about 1.5 lb or 680 g)
• 1 onion
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and grate the potatoes and onion.
2. In a bowl, mix grated potatoes, onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
4. Spoon the mixture into the skillet, flattening it into pancakes.
5. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with sour cream.

12) Borachky – Fried doughnuts traditionally served with icing sugar

Borachky are delightful fried doughnuts that are a favorite in Ukrainian cuisine. They are soft, airy, and have a sweet finish when dusted with icing sugar.

Making these treats is a fun experience. You can enjoy them warm, making them perfect for any celebration or family gathering. These doughnuts pair well with coffee or tea, making them a great snack any time of day.

To create your own Borachky, you will need a few simple ingredients. Using a light dough ensures they fry up perfectly.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) dry yeast
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• Oil for frying
• Icing sugar for dusting

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Add yeast and let it foam for 5 minutes.
2. Mix in flour, salt, and eggs to form a soft dough.
3. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
4. Roll out the dough and cut into doughnut shapes.
5. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
7. Drain on paper towels, then dust with icing sugar before serving. Enjoy!

13) Zavivtsi – Cabbage rolls similar to holubtsi but often more elaborate

Zavivtsi are delicious Ukrainian cabbage rolls that are similar to holubtsi. They stand out for their elaborate fillings and unique flavor combinations.

You can stuff them with various ingredients, including seasoned meats, rice, and even dried fruits. Some recipes also add spices for an extra kick.

The cabbage leaves are gently cooked and then wrapped around the filling. This creates a soft and tender roll that’s perfect for any meal.

You might cook Zavivtsi in a flavorful sauce, which keeps them moist and adds great taste. They are often served with sour cream on top, making them even more delightful.

Ingredients

• Cabbage leaves
• Ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
• Rice
• Onions
• Garlic
• Spices (like paprika and pepper)
• Tomato sauce
• Sour cream

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil cabbage leaves until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix ground meat, rice, onions, and spices.
4. Place the filling on each leaf and roll them up.
5. Arrange rolls in a baking dish and cover with tomato sauce.
6. Bake for 45 minutes or until fully cooked.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream.

14) Uzvar – A refreshing traditional drink made from dried fruits

Uzvar is a delightful Ukrainian drink made from dried fruits. It’s a common choice during the winter months and holidays. Its warm flavor comes from a mix of dried apples, pears, and plums.

To make uzvar, you can also add spices for extra warmth. Honey can sweeten it if you prefer a sweeter taste. This drink is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.

For those special gatherings, serving uzvar can bring everyone together. It’s a perfect treat for cold days. Enjoy this comforting drink as a part of your Ukrainian recipe collection.

Ingredients

• Dried apples
• Dried pears
• Dried plums
• Raisins
• Honey (optional)
• Water
• Spices (like cinnamon or cloves)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the dried fruits under cold water.
2. Soak the fruits in about 4 cups (1 liter) of water overnight.
3. In a saucepan, bring the soaked mixture to a boil over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
4. Simmer for 30 minutes, adding honey and spices as desired.
5. Serve warm or chilled. Enjoy!

15) Kasha – Buckwheat porridge, a staple in Ukrainian cooking

Kasha, or buckwheat porridge, is a traditional dish in Ukrainian cuisine. This wholesome meal is made from roasted buckwheat groats and is often enjoyed for breakfast. It has a nutty flavor and is very nutritious.

You can eat kasha plain or dress it up with ingredients like butter, milk, or fruit. It also makes a great side dish with savory foods like meats and vegetables.

Making kasha is simple and quick. Just remember to rinse the groats before cooking. This small step helps improve their taste and texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup buckwheat groats
• 2 cups water or milk
• Salt to taste
• Butter (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the buckwheat groats under cold water.

2. In a saucepan, bring water or milk to a boil.

3. Add the rinsed groats and a pinch of salt.

4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

5. Fluff with a fork and add butter if desired.