In preparing quick Ukrainian meals for busy weeknights, having the right staples in your pantry can make all the difference. Here are some essential ingredients you’ll want to keep on hand to create delicious, authentic dishes that come together in no time.
| Pantry Essential | Usage and Benefits |
|---|---|
| Sunflower Oil | This versatile oil is a staple in Ukrainian kitchens, perfect for frying, baking, and dressing salads. Its light flavor allows other ingredients to shine. |
| Flour | Used to make dumplings (varenyky), pastries, and breads, good quality all-purpose flour is essential for many Ukrainian dishes. |
| Potatoes | A key ingredient in many traditional dishes, potatoes are perfect for hearty soups and stews or as a side dish themselves. |
| Beetroot | The star of borscht, beetroot provides vibrant color and natural sweetness, making it a must-have for quick soups. |
| Onions | These add depth to almost any dish, from soups to sautés. Onions are a fundamental flavor base in Ukrainian cooking. |
| Cabbage | This ingredient is essential for dishes like holodets and stuffed cabbage rolls, offering both texture and nutrition. |
| Beans and Lentils | Great sources of protein, these legumes can be tossed into soups or served as a side dish, making them perfect for filling meals with minimal effort. |
| Smoked or Cured Meats | Items like sausages or lard can impart rich flavors to dishes and are often included in soups and stews. |
| Sour Cream | A typical topping for many Ukrainian dishes, sour cream adds creaminess and tang, enhancing flavors in everything from borscht to varenyky. |
| Fresh Herbs (Dill, Parsley) | These herbs not only provide a pop of flavor but also brighten up your dishes. Dill is particularly iconic in Ukrainian cuisine. |
By stocking these staples, you’ll be ready to whip up quick and satisfying Ukrainian meals, turning your weeknight dinners into delicious culinary adventures.
Easy borscht in under 30 minutes
Borscht is a beloved dish, rich in flavor and color, and fortunately, it can be made swiftly without sacrificing its authenticity. This easy borscht recipe takes under 30 minutes and provides a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Using fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples, you can enjoy this classic Ukrainian soup any night of the week.
To start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 medium beetroot, peeled and grated
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 large potato, diced
- 2 cups of shredded cabbage
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh dill (for garnish)
Follow these straightforward steps to whip up your borscht:
- In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the grated carrot and beetroot, stirring for another 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Next, incorporate the diced potato, shredded cabbage, and the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the flavors as needed; a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the soup.
- Once cooked, ladle the borscht into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
This borscht is not only quick to prepare but also customizable. Feel free to add proteins like diced smoked sausage or beans for extra heartiness. You can also serve it with a slice of rye bread or a side of varenyky to complete your meal.
Did you know that borscht is often enjoyed at both family gatherings and formal events in Ukraine? It embodies the spirit of Ukrainian hospitality and tradition, serving as a conversation starter over family dinners.
In just half an hour, you can bring a taste of Ukraine to your table with this delightful borscht that is sure to please the whole family!
One-pot varenyky: Perfect for weeknights
Varenyky, also known as pierogi, are delightful dumplings that hold a special place in Ukrainian cuisine. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including potatoes, cheese, or seasonal fruits, making them both versatile and a favorite for families. The best part? You can prepare them all in one pot, allowing for a minimal cleanup after a busy weeknight dinner. Below is a simple recipe for one-pot varenyky that captures the essence of traditional flavors with an ease that suits your hectic schedule.
For this one-pot varenyky, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of water (or more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh dill (for garnish)
Here are the easy steps to create your one-pot varenyky:
- Begin by making the dough. In a bowl, combine the flour and salt, then create a well in the center. Add the egg and gradually pour in the water, mixing until you form a soft dough. Knead it lightly for a few minutes until it’s smooth. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 15 minutes.
- While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a pot, bring salted water to a boil; add the diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 10–15 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes in a mixing bowl.
- In a skillet, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, around 5–7 minutes. Combine the sautéed onions with the mashed potatoes, mixing thoroughly. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
- Once the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut out circles of dough. Fill each circle with a heaping teaspoon of the potato filling, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges securely to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
- In a large pot, bring water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the filled varenyky into the boiling water, stirring to prevent them from sticking. Cook them in batches for about 3–5 minutes or until they float to the surface, indicating they are done.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the varenyky from the water and transfer them to a serving platter.
Serve your one-pot varenyky hot, garnished with fresh dill and a side of sour cream for dipping. The creamy sour cream contrasts wonderfully with the savory filling, making every bite a delight!
Did you know that varenyky are often served during festive occasions, such as Christmas or Easter, in Ukraine? They symbolize unity and togetherness, as families often gather to prepare and enjoy this cherished dish.
This one-pot recipe offers an authentic taste of Ukraine that is both satisfying and straightforward, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners. Enjoy the flavors and comfort that these delicious dumplings bring to your table!
Quick and tasty holodets recipes
Holodets, also known as aspic or meat jelly, is a traditional Ukrainian dish that can be both a festive centerpiece and a delightful addition to any meal. While it may seem elaborate, you can whip up a simplified version quickly and efficiently. This dish is cold, meaty, and wonderfully gelatinous, showcasing flavors that are perfect for a summer gathering or a casual family dinner.
To make quick holodets, gather these ingredients:
- 1 pound of pork or chicken meat (preferably with bone)
- 4 cups of cold water
- 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2-3 garlic cloves (to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (dill or parsley) for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of gelatin (if needed for additional firmness)
Here’s how to prepare your holodets:
- In a large pot, add the pork or chicken meat along with the cold water, quartered onion, carrots, and garlic. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Once you’ve skimmed the foam, reduce the heat to low and add salt and pepper to taste. Allow the broth to simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
- After the cooking time, carefully remove the meat from the pot. Place it on a cutting board and let it cool slightly before shredding it into small pieces. Strain the broth to remove the vegetables and onion.
- If you prefer a firmer jelly, you can dissolve the tablespoon of gelatin in a small amount of warm broth before mixing it back into the pot. Stir the strained broth well.
- In a suitable mold or dish, layer some of the shredded meat in the bottom, then pour a layer of the broth on top to cover it. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ensuring that the last layer is broth. This step adds a beautiful presentation when serving.
- Allow the mold to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, or until the holodets is fully set.
Once set, gently run a knife around the edges of the mold to loosen the holodets. Carefully invert the mold onto a serving plate, allowing the meat jelly to release. Serve sliced and garnished with fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream or horseradish for a zesty kick!
In Ukraine, holodets is often enjoyed during festive celebrations and family gatherings. It’s a dish that embodies tradition and is beloved for its unique texture and flavor. Each family may have its own version, passed down through generations.
With this quick and simple recipe, you can add a touch of Ukrainian tradition to your table, impressing guests and treating your family to this cold yet flavorful dish any night of the week!
Speedy chicken Kyiv for busy chefs
Chicken Kyiv is one of the most iconic dishes in Ukrainian cuisine, celebrated for its crispy coating and succulent butter-filled center. While traditional methods may be a bit labor-intensive, you can achieve a delicious version in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This speedy chicken Kyiv recipe cuts down on prep time while still providing all the classic flavors that make this dish so beloved.
To make quick chicken Kyiv, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of pepper
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups of breadcrumbs
- Sunflower oil for frying
Follow these simple steps to prepare your chicken Kyiv:
- Start by making the herb butter. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened butter, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Transfer this mixture to a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a log, and twist the ends to seal. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes or until firm.
- While the butter is chilling, prepare the chicken breasts. Place each breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re about 1/2-inch thick. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also helps to create an even cooking surface.
- Once the butter is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and slice it into four equal pieces. Take a chicken breast, place a piece of the herb butter in the center, and fold the sides over to encase the butter completely. Secure with toothpicks if necessary, or wrap tightly in plastic wrap to hold its shape while you prepare the rest.
- Set up a breading station. In one shallow bowl, place the flour; in a second, add the beaten eggs; and in a third, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each stuffed chicken breast first in flour, shaking off the excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring an even layer.
- In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of sunflower oil over medium heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check that the chicken is no longer pink inside and the butter is melted and oozing out.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken Kyiv to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
Chicken Kyiv is deliciously served alongside mashed potatoes, fresh salads, or a side of steamed vegetables. The moment you cut into the crispy exterior, the melted herb butter flows out, creating a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Traditionally, chicken Kyiv is not just a dish but a symbol of Ukrainian hospitality, often served during celebrations or family gatherings. Its rich flavors and impressive presentation make it a standout on any dining table.
This quick version of chicken Kyiv allows you to enjoy this classic dish without the fuss. With minimal effort and time, you’ll be able to share a piece of Ukrainian culinary tradition with your family for dinner tonight!