Cabbage rolls, or holubtsi as they are called in Ukrainian, are a staple of Ukrainian cuisine. Generations of Ukrainians have enjoyed this traditional dish, and its history is as rich and complex as the flavors of the dish. This article will explore 10 interesting historical facts about Ukrainian cabbage rolls. 1. Cabbage rolls date back to ancient times The origins of cabbage rolls trace back to ancient times. The collection of Roman cookery recipes, Apicius, dating back to the fifth century AD, contains a recipe for stuffed cabbage leaves, and...
The history of salo in Ukrainian cuisine: From traditional staple to national symbol
Every country has national dishes that are popular far beyond country borders. In Ukraine, salo is one of the most iconic foods; it is consumed raw, salted, and smoked. There is a wide variety of tasty ways to cook salo, but the main thing is that salo remains consistently delicious no matter how it is cooked. Here are some historical facts and salo recipes for you to learn. Salo in Ukraine's history Salo doesn't have an exact date of "birth", and scientists believe that people started consuming salo a very...
The time-honored tradition of bread and salt in Ukrainian society
Most countries have their unique customs related to hospitality. For example, Ukraine has a welcoming tradition called “Bread and salt.” Shared with other countries and nations, including different Slavic, Nordic, and Middle Eastern cultures, it means offering a loaf of bread and salt as a sign of great respect to a person they meet. In every Ukrainian house, bread and salt placed on a rushnyk (an embroidered ritual cloth) are a necessary attribute. Taking a rushnyk, kissing bread, and eating a salted piece of bread symbolized spiritual unity, harmony, and...