5 Popular Ukrainian Foods
Ukrainian cuisine is rooted in tradition, family and the comforting flavours of home. Every dish reflects the country’s deep agricultural heritage and the importance of gathering around a shared table. From warming soups to dumplings, Ukrainian food combines simple, wholesome ingredients with a sense of warmth and celebration that has endured for generations. Join us as we take a look at 5 popular Ukrainian foods: Borshch, Varenyky, Salo, Holubtsi, and Deruny.
Contents
1. Borshch
Борщ
Borshch is a staple that needs no introduction to those with Ukrainian heritage. Few dishes are as recognisable, or as symbolic, as borshch. This vibrant beetroot soup holds a special place in Ukrainian life, celebrated for both its flavour and its cultural significance. The hearty beetroot-based soup has been an integral part of Ukrainian families and societies for generations.
Traditionally served with a spoonful of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, borshch is as much about comfort as it is about taste. It has long been a centrepiece of family gatherings, from everyday dinners to festive holidays, and its recipe varies from region to region, with each version carrying its own local character. Despite traditional versions of borshch containing a meat such as pork or beef, there is also a meatless (Christmas) variant. Borshch is typically served with rye bread and topped with soured cream and dill.
Added to UNESCO’s endangered cultural heritage list in urgent need of safeguarding following the russian invasion, borshch remains a proud symbol of warmth, resilience and home.
2. Varenyky
Вареники
If there is one dish that embodies communal gathering and festive preparation, it is Varenyky. Varenyky have a rich history that can be traced back in Ukraine for centuries. These dumplings were initially born out of necessity, providing a practical way to preserve food during Ukraine’s harsh winters. Over time, they evolved from a basic survival food into a beloved culinary favourite.
The dough for varenyky is typically made from a simple mixture of flour, water, and sometimes an egg to help the binding. The dough is rolled out and cut into small circles or squares, ready to be filled. Once filled, varenyky are usually boiled but sometimes fried. The name «вареники» itself is derived from the Ukrainian verb «варити», which means “to boil”.
These dumplings are extremely versatile, with several options for fillings. Traditional fillings include mashed potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, cottage cheese, cherries, and blueberries. Savoury or sweet, varenyky offer a wide range of flavours to suit different tastes and occasions.
3. Salo
Сало
Salo typically refers to cured pork backfat, which can be found with or without layers of meat. In the past, Salo was a critical element in Ukrainian cuisine due to its high nutritional value at between 770-840 kcal per 100g. During harsh winters and strenuous farm work, Salo provided the sustenance needed to help Ukrainians survive.
Salo is traditionally served in thin slices, often on a piece of rye bread and accompanied with pickled gherkins. The dish holds deep cultural significance in Ukraine, representing strength and resilience. It is frequently found at weddings, celebrations, and holidays as a symbol of togetherness. As such an integral part of Ukrainian everyday culture, the Ukrainian singer Mykhailo Poplavskyi even recorded the song «Сало».
4. Holubtsi
Голубці
Holubtsi are stuffed cabbage rolls that are baked and, like varenyky, are one of the main dishes served at holidays and Ukrainian Christmas. The rolls are made by carefully blanching cabbage leaves, which are then used to wrap a mixture of ground meat – often pork or beef – rice, and a selection of spices. Each roll is then tightly wrapped, before being placed in a baking dish and topped with a homemade tomato sauce.
The name «Голубці» is derived from the Ukrainian word «Голуб» (dove) and the rounded shape is said to represent both unity and completeness. This symbolism makes this dish a popular choice for weddings and festive occasions.
5. Deruny
Деруни
The potato is the most-used vegetable in Ukrainian cuisine, which makes Deruny a commonly found culinary delight. These potato pancakes are made from grated potato and onion, then fried and served with a side of cheese and soured cream.
The golden round shape evokes the sun and hints at good harvests and hopeful tomorrows. They are frequently associated with the festive holiday of Malanka (the Ukrainian New Year’s celebration) but are also commonly found on the table on regular days. Deruny are the embodiment of home-comfort: humble yet rich, steadfast and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Поширені запитання
The most famous Ukrainian dish is borshch (борщ), a beetroot soup that is recognised by UNESCO as part of Ukraine’s cultural heritage. It’s traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill, and is cherished across the country as a symbol of warmth and togetherness.
Yes, many Ukrainian dishes can be made vegetarian. For example, borshch has a meat-free version often enjoyed during Christmas fasting, and varenyky can be filled with potatoes, cabbage or cherries. Even deruny (potato pancakes) are naturally vegetarian.
Varenyky (вареники) and pierogi are similar dumplings, but varenyky are distinctly Ukrainian. The dough for varenyky tends to be slightly softer, and the fillings often include savoury options like potato and cheese or sweet ones such as cherries. While varenyky are usually served simply boiled, topped with butter and sour cream (smetana), pyrohy (pierogi) are often pan-fried after boiling, with butter, onions, or sausage, giving them a crispy, golden crust and an extra layer of flavor.
Salo (сало), or cured pork fat, is a deeply traditional Ukrainian food that symbolises resilience and hospitality. Historically, it provided vital energy during cold winters and remains a proud emblem of Ukrainian identity, often served with rye bread, garlic and pickles.
Discover More Ukrainian Dishes
Відкрийте для себе більше українських страв
If you’ve enjoyed learning about these popular foods, there’s plenty more to explore. Ukrainian cuisine offers a rich variety of comforting meals, festive dishes, and regional specialities that showcase the country’s deep culinary traditions.
You can discover more about Ukrainian food in our section here.
