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...
Traditional Ukrainian bread palianytsia
What is “palianytsia”? The word "palianytsia" is well-known to every Ukrainian, regardless of age or region of residence. It is perceived as something truly Ukrainian, native, and with a patriotic color. This word holds multiple meanings, so let's delve into why it is so popular and what Ukrainians might imply when using it. Traditional bread palianytsia Palyanytsya is a round bread with a horizontal cut on the side, resembling a visor. Its distinctive appearance results from a unique cooking: the dough is not baked in an oven but on a...
5 homemade recipes for Ukrainian bread
In Ukraine, bread is treated with special respect. Indeed it is always present in everyday and festive menus and has a special symbolic meaning for Ukrainians. That is why Ukrainians have prepared fresh bread at home since ancient times and passed down family recipes from generation to generation. Flour is the main ingredient for making bread. Most often, Ukrainians used wheat, rye, and buckwheat flour, while corn and barley flour less often. In lean seasons, various vegetables were mixed into the dough, for example, potatoes, carrots, beets, etc. As for...