My Russian Food Picks (+ Andrey's;-) that Everyone MUST Try!

When our favorite Russian chief told me she started working at a new Russian restaurant, I hesitated for two seconds (it's a 40-minute drive!), but five minutes later I was in my car driving there;-) She is THAT good!!! More than that the restaurant is located right next to a huge Russian grocery store (thank God my fridge was empty and ready for the overload;-) I thought I'd share with you, guys, a few of my and Andrey's favorites - I think you MUST try those out!!! Seriously - your life will never be complete until you do!;-)

First, Andrey's picks:

Plov - is a huge deal in Andrey's family. There wasn't a single get-together in his parents' house without plov on the table! Plus it's believed to be a "men's" dish: only men cook it. Sounds perfect to me;-) (recipe here)

Vinegret /Vinaigrette : it's super simple yet healthy and delicious! One of the most popular winter salads in Russia. (recipe here)

Cheburek - those used to be sold on every corner of every other street in Russia;-) (recipe here)

 

Kvas - a malt drink that is oh! so yummy (and unusually tasting;-) Because of it's high calorie content it's perfect for a healthy body weight gain! (anybody???)

 And now MYYYY favorites!!!!

Shuba salad (full name means Herring in a Coat) - I'm pretty sure it's THE most favorite salad among Russians! C'mon, Mila Kunis even talked about it on Jimmy Kimmel show! (recipe here)

Chicken Kiev - I used to buy at least one of those EVERY DAY back when I was at school. You can buy them in many grocery stores here in the States, but be careful - they're seriously addicting!!!

BY FAR my two most favorite Russian desserts are:

#1. Halva!!!!!
It doesn't look that good, but OMG I've been in love with it every since I was born (or some time close to my birth day) This is the biggest and most important invention in the world of sweets - I'm not even joking when I'm saying this!!! (I always buy the one with sunflower seeds.)

#2. Curd Snacks (сырок) - it's like a healthier and yummier version of cheese cakes (yep, it's possible!) in small packs. I always buy the chocolate covered ones;-)

I have so much more to share, but those ones will be enough for starters, I think;-)  Have you guys tried any Russian food already? What's your favorite?:-))

I hope you all are making this weekend an amazing one!!!