Updated June 29, 2026
Russian and Ukrainian cooking draws on grains, potatoes, dairy, preserved vegetables, fish, dumplings and foods designed to make the most of the season.
Start with practical pantry staples
Buckwheat, sunflower oil, roasted sunflower seeds, pickled vegetables and preserved fish are useful starting points. They can be served simply, added to salads or used as components in larger meals.
Dumplings and easy freezer meals
Pierogi and pelmeni are popular because they are comforting and convenient. Serve them with butter, onions, sour cream, herbs or a simple salad. Frozen availability changes, so call when you need a particular filling or brand.
Fish, caviar and preserved foods
Pickled herring, matjes, sprats, cod liver and salmon caviar are often served with bread, potatoes, onions, eggs or small appetizers. Package size and country of origin can vary by shipment.
Dairy, sweets and beverages
Farmer cheese can be used in fillings, breakfast dishes and baking. Halvah, sushki, chocolates and cookies offer an easy introduction to the sweeter side of the pantry, while kvas provides a distinctive traditional beverage.
Shopping locally in the Triangle
Mariakakis carries these items within a larger European food selection. Visit the dedicated Russian and Ukrainian foods page for current product examples, then call the store to confirm availability.