Eastern European Food: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Polish Xmas Cookies
Weeks before Christmas, my family would get out the cookie tins and start baking traditional Polish sweets for the holidays. It was such a fun time. We played Christmas carols and sang while we worked -- a regular Santa's Workshop.
Weeks before Christmas, my family would get out the cookie tins and start baking traditional Polish sweets for the holidays. It was such a fun time. We played Christmas carols and sang while we worked -- a regular Santa's Workshop.
Polish Stuffed Cabbage Recipe
Every Eastern European country has its version of stuffed cabbage rolls. For Lithuanians, it is holubki, for Poles it is golabki, for Serbs, it is sarma. However they are spelled, stuffed cabbage rolls are the original pocket meals.
Every Eastern European country has its version of stuffed cabbage rolls. For Lithuanians, it is holubki, for Poles it is golabki, for Serbs, it is sarma. However they are spelled, stuffed cabbage rolls are the original pocket meals.
Polish Kolaczki Recipe
Polish kolaczki are flaky little pastries, sometimes considered cookies, filled with fruit, cheese, nut or poppyseed pastes.
Polish kolaczki are flaky little pastries, sometimes considered cookies, filled with fruit, cheese, nut or poppyseed pastes.
Top 10 Hungarian Desserts
Hungary is renowned for its fine pastries, some of them borrowed from Austria which, in turn, borrowed from France. In any case, Hungarians have created a delightful repertoire of rich desserts and stories to match.
Hungary is renowned for its fine pastries, some of them borrowed from Austria which, in turn, borrowed from France. In any case, Hungarians have created a delightful repertoire of rich desserts and stories to match.
Polish Xmas Desserts
My Polish family started baking for Christmas around St. Nicholas Day, Dec. 6. The tasty treats we made were so full of butter and sugar, they theoretically could last until the Feast of the Three Kings on Jan. 6. But we and our company gobbled them up so quickly, we invariably had to make more after Christmas to see us through Twelfth Night.
My Polish family started baking for Christmas around St. Nicholas Day, Dec. 6. The tasty treats we made were so full of butter and sugar, they theoretically could last until the Feast of the Three Kings on Jan. 6. But we and our company gobbled them up so quickly, we invariably had to make more after Christmas to see us through Twelfth Night.
Pumpkin Butter Recipe
Pumpkin Butter is a favorite of Eastern Europeans both as a spread and as a component of other dishes.
Pumpkin Butter is a favorite of Eastern Europeans both as a spread and as a component of other dishes.
Royal Icing Recipe
Royal icing is the mortar that holds a gingerbread house together.
Royal icing is the mortar that holds a gingerbread house together.
Top Eastern European Desserts
Eastern Europeans have a charming tradition of offering "cake and coffee" to any guest who visits, expected or unexpected. That means some type of dessert has to be on hand in the pantry at all times. Those that are moist and have a long shelf life like Cream Cheese Pound Cake, Nut Roll, Strudel, Bread Pudding and those that can be pulled together quickly are the darlings of the Eastern European cook. Here are 10 to try.
Eastern Europeans have a charming tradition of offering "cake and coffee" to any guest who visits, expected or unexpected. That means some type of dessert has to be on hand in the pantry at all times. Those that are moist and have a long shelf life like Cream Cheese Pound Cake, Nut Roll, Strudel, Bread Pudding and those that can be pulled together quickly are the darlings of the Eastern European cook. Here are 10 to try.
Wigilia
For Poles, Christmas Eve is arguably the most important Roman Catholic holiday of the year and wigilia, or Star Supper, is the main focus. An odd number of courses is served -- anywhere from five to 13 -- depending on a family's finances. It was believed the more courses, the more properous the year ahead.
For Poles, Christmas Eve is arguably the most important Roman Catholic holiday of the year and wigilia, or Star Supper, is the main focus. An odd number of courses is served -- anywhere from five to 13 -- depending on a family's finances. It was believed the more courses, the more properous the year ahead.
A Springtime Gingerbread House on the Auction Block
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread House Dough
This gingerbread house dough recipe, while edible, is not meant to be eaten. It is firm and sturdy enough to support decorations.
This gingerbread house dough recipe, while edible, is not meant to be eaten. It is firm and sturdy enough to support decorations.
How to Make Gingerbread Houses
Making a gingerbread house isn't as difficult as it might seem. If you have the right recipes and the right techniques, it's a snap.
Making a gingerbread house isn't as difficult as it might seem. If you have the right recipes and the right techniques, it's a snap.
2008 Fantasy Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
How to Make Pierogi
Once you've selected the dough and filling you want for your pierogi, follow these steps for rolling, cutting, folding and cooking.
Once you've selected the dough and filling you want for your pierogi, follow these steps for rolling, cutting, folding and cooking.
Another Eastern European-Themed Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Favorite Polish Desserts
Desserts vary from region to region in Poland, but this list of favorite Polish dessert recipes seem to be universal throughout the country.
Desserts vary from region to region in Poland, but this list of favorite Polish dessert recipes seem to be universal throughout the country.
Another View of the Victorian Christmas Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
How to Make Polish Sausage
Polish sausage ("kielbasa") is a garlic-flavored pork sausage that can be boiled, boiled and browned or smoked.
Polish sausage ("kielbasa") is a garlic-flavored pork sausage that can be boiled, boiled and browned or smoked.
2006 Thanksgiving-Themed Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Polish Christmas Traditions
Polish Christmas Eve - Wigilia - and Christmas Day are two of the holiest days of the year to Roman Catholics along with Easter.
Polish Christmas Eve - Wigilia - and Christmas Day are two of the holiest days of the year to Roman Catholics along with Easter.
10 Hungarian Recipes
Does anyone really need a reason to try Hungarian food? Well, if convincing is what you're after, consider this. Hungarian cuisine has been influenced by the French, Germans, Italians and Turks, not to mention the Polish, Slavs and Asians. The result is a rich blend of one-pot meals cooked for hours over open fires and pastries that would put Vienna to shame. Take your palate on a magic carpet ride with these 10 recipes from Hungary.
Does anyone really need a reason to try Hungarian food? Well, if convincing is what you're after, consider this. Hungarian cuisine has been influenced by the French, Germans, Italians and Turks, not to mention the Polish, Slavs and Asians. The result is a rich blend of one-pot meals cooked for hours over open fires and pastries that would put Vienna to shame. Take your palate on a magic carpet ride with these 10 recipes from Hungary.
Saliwonczyk's Nut Roll Recipe
Serbian nut roll is made with a moist yeast dough encasing sugared ground walnuts.
Serbian nut roll is made with a moist yeast dough encasing sugared ground walnuts.
Braided Egg Bread Step By Step
These step-by-step photo instructions will help you make braided egg bread known variously as hoska, chalka and challah.
These step-by-step photo instructions will help you make braided egg bread known variously as hoska, chalka and challah.
Stuffed Cabbage - Golabki
A step by step recipe for making cabbage rolls, also known as golabki, holubki and sarma.
A step by step recipe for making cabbage rolls, also known as golabki, holubki and sarma.
Dobosh Torte Recipe
This Hungarian Dobosh Torte recipe sports seven layers filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel layer.
This Hungarian Dobosh Torte recipe sports seven layers filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel layer.
Smoked Sausage and Kraut
This smoked Polish sausage and sauerkraut recipe makes a great potluck or tailgating dish.
This smoked Polish sausage and sauerkraut recipe makes a great potluck or tailgating dish.
How to Decorate a Gingerbread
Step-by-step instructions with pictures showing how to decorate a gingerbread house with royal icing.
Step-by-step instructions with pictures showing how to decorate a gingerbread house with royal icing.
An Eastern European-Themed Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Cheese Pie Recipe - Burek
Burek is a Croatian-Serbian meat or cheese pie made with flaky filo dough.
Burek is a Croatian-Serbian meat or cheese pie made with flaky filo dough.
Evolution of Gingerbread
The origins of gingerbread are said to date to the ancient Greeks and Egyptians.
The origins of gingerbread are said to date to the ancient Greeks and Egyptians.
Poppyseed Roll Makowiec
Poppyseeds are a favorite ingredient in Eastern European cooking and find themselves whole in savory dishes like noodles and ground to a paste in pastries like poppyseed rolls.
Poppyseeds are a favorite ingredient in Eastern European cooking and find themselves whole in savory dishes like noodles and ground to a paste in pastries like poppyseed rolls.
Polish Cheesecake #1
Among the standard desserts in Poland is cheesecake, also known as sernik or serowiec.
Among the standard desserts in Poland is cheesecake, also known as sernik or serowiec.
Gingerbread Houses Let Your Creativity Run Wild
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Another Meals on Wheels Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Slava Bread Recipe
Slava bread is a traditional food for Serbians celebrating their patron saint day, or Krsna Slava.
Slava bread is a traditional food for Serbians celebrating their patron saint day, or Krsna Slava.
Rye Breads
Eastern Europeans, especially Poles, Lithuanians, Russians, Ukrainians and Slovaks, love rye bread. The coarser and darker, the better. There's a staggering variety of ryes, from sourdoughs to buttermilks to cracked rye meal breads. One could conceivably enjoy a different rye bread every day of the week.
Eastern Europeans, especially Poles, Lithuanians, Russians, Ukrainians and Slovaks, love rye bread. The coarser and darker, the better. There's a staggering variety of ryes, from sourdoughs to buttermilks to cracked rye meal breads. One could conceivably enjoy a different rye bread every day of the week.
2009 Easter Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Nut Roll Recipe
This recipe for nut roll, known as potica, povitica and orehnjaca, is a sweet yeast bread with a walnut filling.
This recipe for nut roll, known as potica, povitica and orehnjaca, is a sweet yeast bread with a walnut filling.
Meals on Wheels Gingerbread House Auction
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Hungarian Beef Goulash
Hungarian Beef Goulash is another delicious one-pot offering with the trinity of onions, tomatoes, green peppers and, of course, paprika.
Hungarian Beef Goulash is another delicious one-pot offering with the trinity of onions, tomatoes, green peppers and, of course, paprika.
Polish Beet Barszcz
Easy Polish beet barszcz is a sour soup made with beets.
Easy Polish beet barszcz is a sour soup made with beets.
Santa's Kitchen
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
2008 Halloween-Themed Gingerbread House View 2
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Serbian Sausage - Cevapcici
Cevapcici are casing-less sausages favored by Eastern Europeans.
Cevapcici are casing-less sausages favored by Eastern Europeans.
A Baby Shower-Themed Gingerbread House Makes a Great Table Centerpiece
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
How to Make Chrusciki
These step-by-step photo instructions walk you through the preparation of Polish-style crullers known as chrusciki or chrust faworki.
These step-by-step photo instructions walk you through the preparation of Polish-style crullers known as chrusciki or chrust faworki.
Gingerbread Men Cavorting on the Roof of a Christmas House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Polish Apple Cake Recipe
This is just one version of hundreds of recipes for Polish apple cake.
This is just one version of hundreds of recipes for Polish apple cake.
An Easter-Themed Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Christmas Cookie Recipes
These Christmas cookie recipes come from About.com Food Guides around the world.
These Christmas cookie recipes come from About.com Food Guides around the world.
Hunter's Stew - Bigos
Bigos or Hunters Stew is considered the national dish of Poland. Traditionally, it was full of the fruits of the forest -- venison, mushrooms, dried fruits. Today, anything goes.
Bigos or Hunters Stew is considered the national dish of Poland. Traditionally, it was full of the fruits of the forest -- venison, mushrooms, dried fruits. Today, anything goes.
2009 Valentine's Day Sugar Cookie House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Lithuanian Kugelis Recipe
This Lithuanian kugelis recipe is wonderful as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course.
This Lithuanian kugelis recipe is wonderful as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course.
Cutting Gingerbread Dough
Place the patterns on the dough and cut using a pizza wheel or pastry cutter.
Place the patterns on the dough and cut using a pizza wheel or pastry cutter.
Crispy Wafer Cookies Recipe
This recipe for crispy vanilla wafer cookies - Polish wafle - can be made on a special wafer iron or baked on a conventional pan.
This recipe for crispy vanilla wafer cookies - Polish wafle - can be made on a special wafer iron or baked on a conventional pan.
Serbian Stuffed Cabbage #1
Sarma is the Serbian version of stuffed cabbage.
Sarma is the Serbian version of stuffed cabbage.
Chocolate Mousse Cake Recipe
This recipe for Hungarian Chocolate Mousse Cake - Sutemeny Rigo Jancsi - is made with a chocolate sponge cake, chocolate mousse and chocolate glaze.
This recipe for Hungarian Chocolate Mousse Cake - Sutemeny Rigo Jancsi - is made with a chocolate sponge cake, chocolate mousse and chocolate glaze.
A St. Patty's Day-Themed Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
2008 Halloween-Themed Gingerbread House
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Make a Gingerbread House
Step-by-step instructions with pictures showing how to make a gingerbread house.
Step-by-step instructions with pictures showing how to make a gingerbread house.
Polish Christmas Tree
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Thin Nalesniki Recipe
Polish crepes are known as nalesniki. They can be filled with fruit, jam, or sweet or savory fillings and rolled or folded. Many people then call them blintzes.
Polish crepes are known as nalesniki. They can be filled with fruit, jam, or sweet or savory fillings and rolled or folded. Many people then call them blintzes.
Polish Kielbasa Sausage
Polish sausage (kielbasa) is a pork sausage flavored with garlic, marjoram and black pepper that can be smoked or unsmoked (fresh).
Polish sausage (kielbasa) is a pork sausage flavored with garlic, marjoram and black pepper that can be smoked or unsmoked (fresh).
Czechoslovakian Bar Cookies
Czechsolovakian cukrovi come in many shapes and with different fillings and are traditionally served at Christmas time.
Czechsolovakian cukrovi come in many shapes and with different fillings and are traditionally served at Christmas time.
Polish Pecan Cookies Recipe
This version of Polish pecan cookies, also known as ciastka kurche, is similar to Russian tea cakes and Mexican wedding cookies.
This version of Polish pecan cookies, also known as ciastka kurche, is similar to Russian tea cakes and Mexican wedding cookies.
Polish Paczki
Paczki or Polish bismarcks, also known as doughnuts, are eaten on Fat Tuesday before the fasting days of Lent begin.
Paczki or Polish bismarcks, also known as doughnuts, are eaten on Fat Tuesday before the fasting days of Lent begin.
Basic Pierogi Dough Recipe
This basic pierogi dough recipe is a simple combination of flour, eggs, water and salt.
This basic pierogi dough recipe is a simple combination of flour, eggs, water and salt.
Polish Gingerbread Cookies
Polish pierniczki or gingerbread cookies are popular at Christmas time but especially on Dec. 6, St. Nicholas Day.
Polish pierniczki or gingerbread cookies are popular at Christmas time but especially on Dec. 6, St. Nicholas Day.
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian comfort food dish.
Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian comfort food dish.
Croat-Serb Strudel Dough
Croatian strudel dough is different from filo or puff pastry strudel doughs. It is a flaky dough that bakes up golden brown and light.
Croatian strudel dough is different from filo or puff pastry strudel doughs. It is a flaky dough that bakes up golden brown and light.
Sour Cream Pierogi Dough
This pierogi dough uses sour cream as one of its ingredients.
This pierogi dough uses sour cream as one of its ingredients.
Polish Potato Pancakes
Crispy, thin potato pancakes are a perfect meal for meatless days and a great accompaniment for roast pork or braised short ribs.
Crispy, thin potato pancakes are a perfect meal for meatless days and a great accompaniment for roast pork or braised short ribs.
Almond Crescent Cookies
This recipe for almond crescent cookies - Polish rogaliki - get their "little horns" name from their shape when baked.
This recipe for almond crescent cookies - Polish rogaliki - get their "little horns" name from their shape when baked.
Gingerbread Train From a Kit
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Gingerbread houses have a universal appeal and are perfect for Christmas, but they are appropriate for any celebration and make wonderful centerpieces.
Russian Christmas Tree
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Gingerbread Mix Review
This is a review of Betty Crocker's Gingerbread Cookie Mix.
This is a review of Betty Crocker's Gingerbread Cookie Mix.
Star Cookies Recipe
Polish star cookies - gwiazdki z nieba - is a simple Christmas cookie recipe.
Polish star cookies - gwiazdki z nieba - is a simple Christmas cookie recipe.
Polish Crullers - Chrusciki
Polish crullers, known as chrusciki, are a favorite fried Polish dessert popular especially at the holidays and for weddings. They are also known as angel wings.
Polish crullers, known as chrusciki, are a favorite fried Polish dessert popular especially at the holidays and for weddings. They are also known as angel wings.
Easy Nut Roll Recipe
This easy Croatian nut roll recipe has sour cream in the yeast dough.
This easy Croatian nut roll recipe has sour cream in the yeast dough.
How to Make Cheese Burek
Step-by-step instructions for making Croatian-Serbian cheese burek.
Step-by-step instructions for making Croatian-Serbian cheese burek.
Closeup of Lithuanian Christmas Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Polish Easter Desserts
After 40 days of fasting for Lent, Poles pull out all the stops with a feast that begins on Easter morning and doesn't end until well past Easter Monday. Polish desserts are varied and delicious. These are some of the more popular ones for Easter.
After 40 days of fasting for Lent, Poles pull out all the stops with a feast that begins on Easter morning and doesn't end until well past Easter Monday. Polish desserts are varied and delicious. These are some of the more popular ones for Easter.
Slovak Christmas Eve Velija
Slovak velija or Christmas Eve Holy Supper is a meatless meal with usually 12 courses representing Christ's apostles.
Slovak velija or Christmas Eve Holy Supper is a meatless meal with usually 12 courses representing Christ's apostles.
Eastern European Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving isn't celebrated in Eastern Europe but many of the same foods typically associated with this Western holiday are enjoyed year-round by Eastern Europeans. Enjoy this Thanksgiving dinner Eastern European style!
Thanksgiving isn't celebrated in Eastern Europe but many of the same foods typically associated with this Western holiday are enjoyed year-round by Eastern Europeans. Enjoy this Thanksgiving dinner Eastern European style!
Sourdough Rye Bread Recipe
A rye sour adds tang to this Polish rye bread recipe.
A rye sour adds tang to this Polish rye bread recipe.
Russian Sourdough Rye Bread
Russian sourdough dark rye bread has the tang that Russians love.
Russian sourdough dark rye bread has the tang that Russians love.
Gingerbread Tell-All
I know of few other baking aromas more evocative of Christmas than gingerbread. When the spices begin to perfume the air, I'm time warped back to my grandmother's steamy kitchen as she baked pierniczki in the shape of Swiety Mikolaj to give us along with our ration of oranges and nuts on Dec. 6, St. Nicholas Day. Enjoy this collection of gingerbread recipes, tips and memories.
I know of few other baking aromas more evocative of Christmas than gingerbread. When the spices begin to perfume the air, I'm time warped back to my grandmother's steamy kitchen as she baked pierniczki in the shape of Swiety Mikolaj to give us along with our ration of oranges and nuts on Dec. 6, St. Nicholas Day. Enjoy this collection of gingerbread recipes, tips and memories.
Closeup of Russian Christmas Tree Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
wigilia
Wigilia literally means "vigil" and is the Polish word for a special fasting Christmas Eve dinner.
Wigilia literally means "vigil" and is the Polish word for a special fasting Christmas Eve dinner.
Serbian Stuffed Cabbage #2
This is another version of Croatian / Serbian stuffed cabbage known as sarma.
This is another version of Croatian / Serbian stuffed cabbage known as sarma.
Pomegranate Vinaigrette
This pomegranate vinaigrette recipe combines pomegranate juice, honey and oil for a tasty salad topper.
This pomegranate vinaigrette recipe combines pomegranate juice, honey and oil for a tasty salad topper.
Another Closeup of Russian Christmas Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Closeup of Slovak Christmas Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Blini Recipe
Russians love buckwheat blini with caviar, smoked salmon, minced onion, chopped eggs, sour cream and a sip of vodka.
Russians love buckwheat blini with caviar, smoked salmon, minced onion, chopped eggs, sour cream and a sip of vodka.
Gingerbread Disaster
Gingerbread houses can be fun to make and easier than one might think if you follow some simple rules. Learn from my experience and disasters.
Gingerbread houses can be fun to make and easier than one might think if you follow some simple rules. Learn from my experience and disasters.
Polish Christmas
Christmas is one of the most important religious holidays in Poland, with Christmas Eve taking precedence over Christmas Day and Easter. Here are the customs, traditions and recipes for a Polish Christmas.
Christmas is one of the most important religious holidays in Poland, with Christmas Eve taking precedence over Christmas Day and Easter. Here are the customs, traditions and recipes for a Polish Christmas.
How to Make Bigos
Step-by-step instructions for making bigos, considered to be the national dish of Poland. This long-simmered meat and sauerkraut stew is perfect year-round.
Step-by-step instructions for making bigos, considered to be the national dish of Poland. This long-simmered meat and sauerkraut stew is perfect year-round.
Traditional Easter Babka
This traditional Polish Easter Babka recipe is a sweet, yeast-risen bread with raisins and candied citrus rind.
This traditional Polish Easter Babka recipe is a sweet, yeast-risen bread with raisins and candied citrus rind.
Raspberry-Cream Roulade
Hungarian Raspberry Cream Roll or malna piskotatekercs uses a sponge cake base, raspberr jam, and fresh raspberries and whipped cream.
Hungarian Raspberry Cream Roll or malna piskotatekercs uses a sponge cake base, raspberr jam, and fresh raspberries and whipped cream.
Serbian Christmas Traditions
Discover how Orthodox Christian Serbians celebrate Christmas through a discussion of customs, recipes, and image galleries of a Yule Log burning and more.
Discover how Orthodox Christian Serbians celebrate Christmas through a discussion of customs, recipes, and image galleries of a Yule Log burning and more.
Closeup of Romanian Christmas Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Polish Coffee Cake Recipe
Polish coffee cake or placek z kruszonka is a simple sweet yeast-raised cake with a crumb topping.
Polish coffee cake or placek z kruszonka is a simple sweet yeast-raised cake with a crumb topping.
Eggplant Spread - Ajvar
Ajvar is Croatian / Serbian combination of roasted, mashed eggplant and sweet peppers served as a side dish with grilled meats or as an appetizer on bread.
Ajvar is Croatian / Serbian combination of roasted, mashed eggplant and sweet peppers served as a side dish with grilled meats or as an appetizer on bread.
The Gift of Time
Homemade gifts of food are really the gift of time and the quintessential way of saying you care.
Homemade gifts of food are really the gift of time and the quintessential way of saying you care.
Serbian Easter Menu
A Serbian Easter feast wouldn't be complete without a platter of sausages, cured meats, roasted peppers and cheeses, ajvar, kajmak and pogacha, and red wine. But the real centerpiece is spit-roasted barbecued lamb with lots of raw green onions. The best way to eat this delicacy is with your fingers. It's almost a requirement! The meal is rounded out by sarma, burek, cevapcici, Easter bread, salads, potatoes or rice, and desserts like nutroll, krem pita and kumas with strong Serbian coffee.
A Serbian Easter feast wouldn't be complete without a platter of sausages, cured meats, roasted peppers and cheeses, ajvar, kajmak and pogacha, and red wine. But the real centerpiece is spit-roasted barbecued lamb with lots of raw green onions. The best way to eat this delicacy is with your fingers. It's almost a requirement! The meal is rounded out by sarma, burek, cevapcici, Easter bread, salads, potatoes or rice, and desserts like nutroll, krem pita and kumas with strong Serbian coffee.
Drop Potato Dumplings Recipe
This recipe for Polish Drop Potato Dumplings - Kartoflane Kluski - is made with raw potatoes, not mashed potatoes.
This recipe for Polish Drop Potato Dumplings - Kartoflane Kluski - is made with raw potatoes, not mashed potatoes.
Another Closeup of Polish Christmas Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Romanian Christmas Tree
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Closeup of Polish Christmas Tree Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Bajadera Torte
This dessert torte is a takeoff on Croatia's famous chocolate treat known as bajadera.
This dessert torte is a takeoff on Croatia's famous chocolate treat known as bajadera.
Easy Esterhazy Torte
This is an easy version of Esterhazy torte, which is a rich multilayered Hungarian dessert.
This is an easy version of Esterhazy torte, which is a rich multilayered Hungarian dessert.
Chicken Paprikash Recipe
This recipe for Hungarian chicken paprikash uses no green or red peppers and is served over rice.
This recipe for Hungarian chicken paprikash uses no green or red peppers and is served over rice.
Rack of Pork Recipe
Roast rack of pork is a showy cut of meat similar to a standing beef rib roast or rack of lamb.
Roast rack of pork is a showy cut of meat similar to a standing beef rib roast or rack of lamb.
Bread Dumplings Recipe
There are many versions of Bohemian-Czech bread dumplings - houskove knedliky. This one has bacon and onion in the dough.
There are many versions of Bohemian-Czech bread dumplings - houskove knedliky. This one has bacon and onion in the dough.
United States Christmas Tree
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Bread Pudding Step By Step
Bread pudding is the universal way to use up stale or leftover bread.
Bread pudding is the universal way to use up stale or leftover bread.
European Christmas Recipes
About.com's European Food Guides got together to provide these traditional Christmas recipes for Eastern Europe, Germany, France, Spain and England.
About.com's European Food Guides got together to provide these traditional Christmas recipes for Eastern Europe, Germany, France, Spain and England.
Vanilla
Pure vanilla extract is so important in baking. When you're going to take the time to create a delicious Eastern European dessert or pastry from scratch, use pure vanilla extract. Artificial vanilla simply won't do. But did you realize where it comes from? Read on.
Pure vanilla extract is so important in baking. When you're going to take the time to create a delicious Eastern European dessert or pastry from scratch, use pure vanilla extract. Artificial vanilla simply won't do. But did you realize where it comes from? Read on.
Easy Gingerbread Recipe
This easy gingerbread house and cookie dough recipe uses a cake mix.
This easy gingerbread house and cookie dough recipe uses a cake mix.
Easy Russian Rye Bread
This recipe for easy Russian rye bread does not require a starter and contains no eggs or oil.
This recipe for easy Russian rye bread does not require a starter and contains no eggs or oil.
Noodles and Sauerkraut
Polish noodles and sauerkraut, or kluski z kapusta, is a favorite side dish in Eastern European kitchens.
Polish noodles and sauerkraut, or kluski z kapusta, is a favorite side dish in Eastern European kitchens.
Hungarian Sweet Palacsinta
Hungarian palacsinta sweet pancakes are like crepes or nalesniki or palachinke.
Hungarian palacsinta sweet pancakes are like crepes or nalesniki or palachinke.
Hungarian Fried Bread Recipe
Langos is Hungarian fried bread sometimes called Hungarian pizza. It is a favorite street and fair food.
Langos is Hungarian fried bread sometimes called Hungarian pizza. It is a favorite street and fair food.
All About Pierogi
Pierogi are filled dumplings that can be sweet or savory.
Pierogi are filled dumplings that can be sweet or savory.
Pear Butter Recipe
This easy pear butter recipe requires only three ingredients - pears, water and sugar.
This easy pear butter recipe requires only three ingredients - pears, water and sugar.
Croatian Chicken Pot Pie
Croatian chicken pot pie recipe - kvrgusa - features a batter crust instead of a flaky one with juicy chunks of chicken.
Croatian chicken pot pie recipe - kvrgusa - features a batter crust instead of a flaky one with juicy chunks of chicken.
Buttermilk Rye Bread Recipe
This moist, easy Polish rye bread recipe uses buttermilk instead of a sour to create the tang associated with rye breads.
This moist, easy Polish rye bread recipe uses buttermilk instead of a sour to create the tang associated with rye breads.
Eastern Europe Defined
Through war and politics, Eastern European borders have fluctuated for years. It's trickier than one might think to name the countries considered to be part of this region of Europe.
Through war and politics, Eastern European borders have fluctuated for years. It's trickier than one might think to name the countries considered to be part of this region of Europe.
Cream Puffs Recipe
This recipe for Hungarian Cream Puffs - Indianer - is filled with sweetened whipped cream.
This recipe for Hungarian Cream Puffs - Indianer - is filled with sweetened whipped cream.
Herbs and Spices
Here you will find an alphabetical listing of herbs and spices, beginning with the letters Q through Z, commonly used in Eastern European cooking.
Here you will find an alphabetical listing of herbs and spices, beginning with the letters Q through Z, commonly used in Eastern European cooking.
Cepelinai Recipe
Potato-meat dumplings known as zeppelins or cepelinai are a traditional Lithuanian dish.
Potato-meat dumplings known as zeppelins or cepelinai are a traditional Lithuanian dish.
Authentic Bajadera Torte
This recipe for bajadera torte comes directly from Osijek, Croatia.
This recipe for bajadera torte comes directly from Osijek, Croatia.
Polish Apple Tart Recipe
Polish apple tart or szarlotka is like American apple pie but the crust is sweeter and is made with butter.
Polish apple tart or szarlotka is like American apple pie but the crust is sweeter and is made with butter.
Serbian Hamburgers
Pljeskavica are juicy Serbian hamburgers made with pork, lamb and beef. They are popular in one form or another throughout the Balkans.
Pljeskavica are juicy Serbian hamburgers made with pork, lamb and beef. They are popular in one form or another throughout the Balkans.
Easy Dark Rye Bread Recipe
This easy recipe for Lithuanian dark rye bread or rugine duona is a dense loaf that requires no sourdough starter.
This easy recipe for Lithuanian dark rye bread or rugine duona is a dense loaf that requires no sourdough starter.
Creamy Kohlrabi Soup
Kohlrabi soup, made with this cabbage-like vegetable, is beloved by Eastern Europeans, in particular the Hungarians, Polish, and Russians.
Kohlrabi soup, made with this cabbage-like vegetable, is beloved by Eastern Europeans, in particular the Hungarians, Polish, and Russians.
Hungarian Crepes Recipe
Hungarian palacsinta teszta hushoz are savory pancakes like crepes, nalesniki or palachinke.
Hungarian palacsinta teszta hushoz are savory pancakes like crepes, nalesniki or palachinke.
Polish Christmas Tree Decorated by Students
The Polish Museum of America is a treasure trove of artifacts from Poland and of Chicago's Polish history. The museum offers workshops throughout the year to keep alive the traditions of the homeland. Here are pictures of an ornament-making workshop in 2008.
The Polish Museum of America is a treasure trove of artifacts from Poland and of Chicago's Polish history. The museum offers workshops throughout the year to keep alive the traditions of the homeland. Here are pictures of an ornament-making workshop in 2008.
Serbian Orthodox Christmas Traditions
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Traditional Kajmak
Kajmak or kaymak is a Serbian/Croatian/Macedonian unripened (not aged) cheese similar to clotted cream still made in many kitchens today. It is usually served with bread as an appetizer.
Kajmak or kaymak is a Serbian/Croatian/Macedonian unripened (not aged) cheese similar to clotted cream still made in many kitchens today. It is usually served with bread as an appetizer.
Light Rye Bread
A hearty rye bread is a satisfying accompaniment to any Eastern European meal.
A hearty rye bread is a satisfying accompaniment to any Eastern European meal.
Polish Breaded Pork Cutlets
Pork is a favorite meat for Poles and this breaded fried pork cutlet dish is very popular.
Pork is a favorite meat for Poles and this breaded fried pork cutlet dish is very popular.
Polish Kolacz Recipe
Cheese kolacz is a yeast-raised coffee cake similar in texture to Polish babka that was often served as the wedding cake in the old days.
Cheese kolacz is a yeast-raised coffee cake similar in texture to Polish babka that was often served as the wedding cake in the old days.
Polish Cucumbers in Sour Cream
Mizeria is the Polish name for cucumbers in sour cream, a refreshing dish served year-round.
Mizeria is the Polish name for cucumbers in sour cream, a refreshing dish served year-round.
Ukrainian Christmas Tree
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Pagach Bread Recipe
Slovak pagach is a bread stuffed with mashed potatoes or cabbage and served at meatless meals, like Advent, Lent and for the Christmas Eve supper known as Velija.
Slovak pagach is a bread stuffed with mashed potatoes or cabbage and served at meatless meals, like Advent, Lent and for the Christmas Eve supper known as Velija.
Krsna Slava
Krsna Slava in the Serbian tradition is the celebration of a family's patron saint. It is a time for feasting with friends and family.
Krsna Slava in the Serbian tradition is the celebration of a family's patron saint. It is a time for feasting with friends and family.
Czech Republic Christmas Tree
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Another Closeup of Romanian Christmas Decorations
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.
Every year since 1942, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry has displayed Christmas trees from around the world, decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Enjoy this virtual tour that highlights the Eastern European trees in the exhibit.