Aside from its rich history and cultural significance, Russian cuisine is also known for its mouthwatering dishes. One of the most beloved and iconic dishes in Russian cuisine is shashlik, a type of skewered meat that is traditionally cooked over an open flame. This recipe has been passed down for generations and is a staple at summertime gatherings and celebrations. But what makes Russian shashlik so special? Let's take a closer look at this delicious dish.
Shashlik (Russian Lamb Kebab with Tomato-Prune Sauce)
Main Ingredients: Dill, Seltzer Water, White Vinegar, Ground Coriander
Shashlik is a popular Russian dish that is essentially a marinated and grilled kebab. Traditionally, it is made with lamb and served with a tangy tomato-prune sauce. The combination of the tender lamb and the sweet and sour sauce makes for a mouth-watering meal that is perfect for any occasion. Here's a delicious recipe for Shashlik that you can easily make at home.
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Russian Shashlik – Chicken Shish Kebab
Main Ingredients: Sour Cream, Lemon Juice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you're looking for a lighter version of Shashlik, try making it with chicken instead of lamb. This recipe for Chicken Shashlik uses a similar marinade and is just as delicious as the traditional version. Serve it with a side of rice and grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Russian Shashlik is a classic dish that is often enjoyed during summer barbecues and picnics. The marinade for this recipe includes a mix of herbs, spices, and vinegar, which gives the meat a unique and flavorful taste. Be sure to let the meat marinate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, for the best results.
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Shashlik (Russian Shish Kebabs)
Main Ingredients: Lamb Shoulder, Onions, Garlic, Bay Leaves, Apple Cider
Shish kebabs, or Shashlik, are a popular street food in Russia and are often sold by street vendors. They are typically made with chunks of marinated beef or lamb, but this recipe uses a mix of beef and pork for a more tender and juicy result. Serve these kebabs with a side of grilled vegetables and a dollop of sour cream for a complete meal.
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Pork Kebabs (Russian Pork Shashlik)
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin, Yellow Onions, Spices, Salt, Medium Zucchini
For a twist on the traditional Shashlik, try making it with pork instead of lamb or beef. This recipe for Russian Pork Shashlik uses a delicious marinade made with mustard, honey, and garlic, which gives the pork a sweet and tangy flavor. These kebabs are perfect for a summer barbecue or a winter cookout, and can be served with a side of mashed potatoes or rice.
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Borscht (Russian-Style Beet Soup)
Main Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Beef Stew Meat, Bay Leaf, Beef Broth
Borscht is a traditional Russian soup made with beets, cabbage, and other vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter days. This recipe for Russian-Style Borscht uses beef broth as a base and includes shredded beef for added protein. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream and some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
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Russian Buttercream
Main Ingredients: Buttercream, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Unsalted Butter
Russian Buttercream is a rich and creamy frosting that is perfect for decorating cakes and cupcakes. It is made with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, and can be flavored with various extracts and food coloring. This recipe yields enough frosting to cover a 9-inch layer cake or to frost 24 cupcakes.
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Chicken Shashlik
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Marinade, Red Pepper
This recipe for Chicken Shashlik is a traditional Russian dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with boneless chicken thighs that are marinated in a mixture of herbs, spices, and vinegar, and then grilled to perfection. The result is tender and flavorful kebabs that can be served with a side of rice or grilled vegetables.
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Maria's Russian Beef Stroganoff
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Mrs Dash Seasoning, Pepper, Salt
Beef Stroganoff is a classic Russian dish that has become popular all over the world. This recipe for Maria's Russian Beef Stroganoff is a twist on the traditional version and uses ground beef instead of strips of beef. It is a quick and easy meal that can be served over egg noodles or rice.
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Tender Beef Kebabs (Shashlik)
Main Ingredients: Beef, Bell Peppers, Purple Onion, Bamboo, Mild Olive
Shashlik is a popular Russian dish that is essentially a marinated and grilled kebab. This recipe for Tender Beef Kebabs uses a delicious marinade made with red wine, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. The result is tender and flavorful kebabs that are perfect for any occasion.
This recipe for Easy Russian Borscht Soup is a simplified version of the traditional dish. It uses canned beets and canned tomatoes for a quicker and easier preparation. Despite the shortcuts, this borscht still has a rich and hearty flavor that will warm you up on a cold day.
Russian Honey Cake is a classic dessert that is often served during holidays and special occasions. It is a multi-layered cake made with honey, sour cream, and spices, and is topped with a decadent caramelized honey glaze. This recipe may take some time to prepare, but the end result is worth the effort.
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Nutty Russian
Main Ingredients: Kahlua, Frangelico, Vodka
Nutty Russian is a delicious twist on the classic cocktail, White Russian. This recipe adds a nutty flavor to the drink by using Frangelico, a hazelnut liqueur, instead of Kahlua. It is a perfect after-dinner drink or a fun addition to any party.
Russian Apricot Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. It is made with boneless chicken breasts that are coated in a mixture of apricot preserves, mustard, and spices, and then baked in the oven. Serve it with a side of rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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Salted Caramel White Russian
Main Ingredients: Kahlua, Caramel Vodka, Half Half, Caramel Sauce
Salted Caramel White Russian is a decadent and indulgent cocktail that is perfect for special occasions. This recipe combines the classic White Russian with a touch of salted caramel for a rich and creamy drink that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Serve it as a dessert drink or as a nightcap.
Long Black Russian is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, Black Russian. This recipe adds a splash of cola to the mix, giving the drink a lighter and more bubbly taste. It is perfect for a hot summer day or as a pre-dinner drink.
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Russian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls "Golubtsy"
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Cabbage, Chopped Onion, Ground Beef, Egg
Golubtsy, or Russian stuffed cabbage rolls, are a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for cold winter days. This recipe uses a mix of ground beef and pork for the filling and is served with a tangy tomato sauce. The rolls are then baked in the oven until tender and delicious.
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Russian Borscht Soup
Main Ingredients: Beetroot, Onion, Carrot, Cabbage, Potato, Garlic
Borscht is a traditional Russian soup made with beets, cabbage, and other vegetables. This recipe for Russian Borscht Soup uses a mix of beef and chicken broth for added flavor. Serve it hot with a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Russian Dressing is a tangy and creamy salad dressing that is often used in Russian-style salads. It is made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and a mix of spices, and can be used as a dressing for coleslaw or as a dip for vegetables. This recipe is quick and easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Russian Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that uses basic ingredients to create a delicious meal. It is made with chicken breasts that are coated in a mixture of flour, paprika, and garlic powder, and then baked in the oven. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables for a satisfying dinner.
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Shashlik (Russian Lamb Kebab with Tomato-Prune Sauce)
Main Ingredients: Dill, Seltzer Water, White Vinegar, Ground Coriander
Shashlik, also known as Russian lamb kebab, is a popular dish in Russian cuisine. It consists of marinated lamb meat skewered and grilled over an open flame. The meat is tender and juicy, with a hint of smokiness from the grill. What sets this recipe apart is the addition of a tangy and sweet tomato-prune sauce that perfectly complements the savory lamb. It's a must-try for any meat lover.
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Russian Shashlik – Chicken Shish Kebab
Main Ingredients: Sour Cream, Lemon Juice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you're not a fan of lamb, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of shashlik with this chicken shish kebab recipe. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, giving it a tender and flavorful taste. The addition of vegetables like bell peppers and onions adds a nice crunch and balance to the dish. It's a great option for a healthier version of shashlik.
This classic Russian shashlik recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The marinade is made with simple ingredients like vinegar, oil, and herbs, but it packs a punch of flavor. The key to making perfect shashlik is to let the meat marinate for at least 24 hours. This allows all the flavors to fully infuse into the meat, resulting in a juicy and tender kebab.
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Shashlik (Russian Shish Kebabs)
Main Ingredients: Lamb Shoulder, Onions, Garlic, Bay Leaves, Apple Cider
Another variation of shashlik is this recipe for shish kebabs. These are made with pork instead of lamb or chicken. The pork is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and paprika, giving it a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. The meat is then skewered with vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
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Pork Kebabs (Russian Pork Shashlik)
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin, Yellow Onions, Spices, Salt, Medium Zucchini
For a more traditional take on shashlik, try this pork kebab recipe. The marinade is made with red wine, garlic, and herbs, giving the pork a rich and robust flavor. The meat is then grilled to perfection and served with a side of pickles and bread. It's a simple and satisfying dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue.
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Borscht (Russian-Style Beet Soup)
Main Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Beef Stew Meat, Bay Leaf, Beef Broth
Borscht is a classic Russian soup made with beets, vegetables, and meat. The addition of sautéed onions and dill adds a depth of flavor to the soup. It's hearty, nutritious, and perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe also includes a dollop of sour cream on top, adding a creamy and tangy element to the dish.
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Russian Buttercream
Main Ingredients: Buttercream, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Unsalted Butter
Russian buttercream, also known as smetannik, is a creamy and rich frosting that is commonly used in Russian desserts. It's made with butter, sour cream, and sugar, resulting in a silky smooth texture and a slightly tangy taste. This frosting is perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
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Chicken Shashlik
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Marinade, Red Pepper
This chicken shashlik recipe is a quick and easy version of the traditional dish. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and spices, and then skewered with vegetables and grilled to perfection. It's a great option for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
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Maria's Russian Beef Stroganoff
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Mrs Dash Seasoning, Pepper, Salt
Beef stroganoff is a beloved Russian dish that has become popular all over the world. This recipe features tender beef strips cooked in a creamy and flavorful sauce made with mushrooms, onions, and sour cream. It's a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner.
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Tender Beef Kebabs (Shashlik)
Main Ingredients: Beef, Bell Peppers, Purple Onion, Bamboo, Mild Olive
If you're looking for a simple and delicious shashlik recipe, look no further. This recipe uses beef tenderloin, which is known for its tenderness and flavor. The meat is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and then grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
This borscht soup recipe is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal. It uses canned beets and other vegetables to cut down on cooking time, but still maintains the classic flavors of borscht. It's a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
This Russian honey cake, also known as medovik, is a classic dessert that is loved by many. Layers of soft and moist honey cake are sandwiched between a rich and creamy frosting made with condensed milk. It's a sweet and indulgent treat that is perfect for special occasions.
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Nutty Russian
Main Ingredients: Kahlua, Frangelico, Vodka
If you're a fan of the classic White Russian cocktail, you'll love this nutty twist on the recipe. It adds a nutty and sweet flavor to the drink by using hazelnut liqueur in addition to the traditional vodka and coffee liqueur. Serve over ice for a refreshing and delicious cocktail.
This Russian apricot chicken recipe is a sweet and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion. The chicken is coated in a delicious apricot and onion sauce, and then baked until tender and juicy. It's a great option for a dinner party or a family gathering.
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Salted Caramel White Russian
Main Ingredients: Kahlua, Caramel Vodka, Half Half, Caramel Sauce
This salted caramel white Russian is a decadent and indulgent version of the classic cocktail. It combines the flavors of coffee liqueur, vodka, and cream with the sweetness of salted caramel syrup. It's a perfect after-dinner drink or a treat for a special occasion.
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Russian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls "Golubtsy"
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Cabbage, Chopped Onion, Ground Beef, Egg
This recipe for Russian stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as golubtsy, is a classic dish that is loved by many. The cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, and then baked in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. It's a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for colder months.
This long black Russian cocktail is a simple and refreshing version of the classic drink. It combines the flavors of coffee liqueur, vodka, and cola for a delicious and easy-to-make drink. It's perfect for a night in or a summer barbecue.
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Russian Borscht Soup
Main Ingredients: Beetroot, Onion, Carrot, Cabbage, Potato, Garlic
This traditional Russian borscht soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for colder months. It's made with beets, cabbage, and beef, and is packed with nutrients and flavor. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
This homemade Russian dressing is a tangy and creamy sauce that is commonly used in salads and sandwiches. It's made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and other simple ingredients, and can be easily customized to your taste. It's a delicious and versatile dressing that you'll want to put on everything.
This Russian chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, and then roasted to perfection. Serve with a side of rice or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
The Ingredients
Meat:
The key to a delicious shashlik is using the right type of meat. Traditional Russian shashlik is made with lamb, but you can also use beef or pork. The meat should be cut into cubes or strips and marinated for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop. Make sure to choose high-quality meat for the best results.
Marinade:
The marinade is what gives the shashlik its distinct flavor. It typically consists of a combination of oil, vinegar, spices, and herbs. Some popular ingredients include garlic, onion, paprika, and thyme. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.
Vegetables:
While the meat is the star of the show, vegetables are also an important component of Russian shashlik. Traditional recipes call for onions and bell peppers, but you can also add other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to the skewers. The vegetables add texture and balance out the flavors of the dish.
The Cooking Process
Once the meat has been marinated, it's time to start cooking. Traditionally, shashlik is cooked over an open flame on a skewer, but it can also be grilled or broiled in the oven. The key is to cook the meat on high heat for a short amount of time, usually between 5-7 minutes per side, to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
Serving and Pairing
Russian shashlik is usually served with a side of fresh vegetables, such as a tomato and cucumber salad, and a hearty serving of potatoes or rice. The dish is often accompanied by a shot of vodka, which is believed to enhance the flavors of the meat. It's a perfect dish to enjoy with friends and family on a warm summer day.
Bonus tip:
For an added touch of authenticity, serve your shashlik with a side of tkemali, a traditional Georgian sauce made from plums and spices. The tangy and slightly spicy flavor of tkemali complements the rich flavors of the shashlik perfectly.
In conclusion, Russian shashlik is more than just a recipe - it's a cultural experience. The combination of high-quality meat, flavorful marinade, and fresh vegetables make this dish a must-try for anyone looking to explore Russian cuisine. So fire up the grill and give this delicious recipe a try!
Shashlik (Russian Lamb Kebab with Tomato-Prune Sauce)
