Even before the war with Russia, Yevhen Klopotenko was a passionate advocate for the idea of Ukrainian cooking, distinct from nearby lands and free of homogenization which had occurred during the Soviet era. In 100 recipes here, he celebrates traditional favorites and seeks to revive what he feels are culturally significant dishes which were obscured during the 20th century. His generous headnotes and detailed recipes speak to a passion for preservation and a hope of inspiring new generations of cooks to prepare food such as: Vorschmack, a chopped herring spread “perfected by Odesa’s vibrant Jewish community” Kholodets, a savory holiday aspic with many regional variations Syrnyky, a farmer’s cheese pancake which can be topped with jam or sour cream Borsh with pork ribs and smoked pears Tovchanka, mashed potatoes with poppy seeds, peas, and beans Khrinovuka, horseradish-infused vodka Happily, unabashedly Ukrainian. Hardcover. Color photographs throughout
