Eastern European Dishes to Try in Thailand

Are you looking to try something new in Thailand? Why not switch things up and try some traditional Eastern European cuisine? Thailand is known for its diverse food scene, but Eastern European dishes are still a rarity. Luckily, there are some hidden gems that serve up delicious cuisine from countries like Poland, Ukraine, and Romania right here in Thailand. Here are some Eastern European dishes to try on your next culinary adventure.

Pierogi

Pierogi, also known as dumplings, are a staple in Polish cuisine. These small, filled dough pockets can be sweet or savory and can be filled with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, meat, and even fruit. A popular pierogi dish is pierogi Ruskie, which is filled with potatoes and cheese and served with bacon and onion on top.

Borscht

Borscht is a soup that is commonly served in Ukrainian and Russian cuisine. This hearty soup is made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and beef or sausage, giving it a rich and complex flavor. It is often served with sour cream and fresh dill on top.

Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage rolls are a popular dish in both Ukrainian and Polish cuisine. These are filled with seasoned ground meat and rice, and they are wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. They are usually served with tomato sauce and sour cream on the side.

Cheese Paska

Cheese Paska is a traditional Easter dessert in Ukraine. This sweet cheese bread is made with soft cheese, eggs, sugar, and raisins. It is shaped into a dome and decorated with colorful patterns using egg yolks. It is a unique dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Sarmale

Sarmale is a popular dish in Romanian cuisine. These are cabbage rolls that are typically filled with a mixture of ground pork, rice, and seasonings, and they are usually served with a side of sour cream. They are a satisfying comfort food that is sure to impress.

Kielbasa

Kielbasa is a type of sausage that is commonly found in Polish cuisine. It is made with pork and spices, giving it a delicious smoky and savory flavor. It is usually served sliced and grilled, and it is often paired with sauerkraut or potato dishes.

Babka

Babka is a sweet bread that is of Ukrainian and Polish origin. This bread is made with yeast, eggs, sugar, and flour, and it is often filled with raisins, nuts, or chocolate. It is a dessert bread that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Conclusion

Eastern European cuisine may not be as prevalent in Thailand as Thai cuisine, but these dishes are definitely worth trying. From pierogi to borscht and sarmale, these dishes offer a unique and flavorful experience that is sure to make your taste buds sing. So next time you’re in the mood for something different, give Eastern European cuisine a try.

FAQ

What is Eastern European cuisine?

Eastern European cuisine includes the traditional foods and dishes of countries in the eastern part of Europe, such as Poland, Ukraine, and Romania. These dishes are often hearty and filling, featuring ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, and meats.

Where can I find Eastern European cuisine in Thailand?

Eastern European cuisine may not be as common in Thailand as Thai cuisine, but there are some restaurants that serve up traditional dishes. Look for Polish, Ukrainian, and Romanian restaurants in larger cities like Bangkok.

What is pierogi?

Pierogi are small, filled dough pockets that are a staple in Polish cuisine. They can be sweet or savory, and they are typically filled with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, meat, and fruit.

What is sarmale?

Sarmale is a popular dish in Romanian cuisine. It consists of cabbage rolls that are filled with a mixture of ground pork, rice, and seasonings, and they are usually served with a side of sour cream.

What is borscht?

Borscht is a soup that is commonly served in Ukrainian and Russian cuisine. It is made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and beef or sausage, and it is often served with sour cream and fresh dill on top.

Is Eastern European cuisine spicy?

Eastern European cuisine is not typically known for being spicy. Instead, it is often hearty and filling, featuring ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, and meats.

Can I make these dishes at home?

Yes, many of these dishes can be made at home with the right ingredients and recipes. Look online for traditional recipes or try a cookbook on Eastern European cuisine.

References

• “Eastern European Cuisine: Foods of the Belarusians, Bulgarians, Croats, Czechs, Hungarians, Poles, Russians, and Slovaks.” International cuisines. n.d. https://www.internationalcuisine.com/eastern-european-cuisine/
• “The Best Ukrainian Food in Bangkok.” The Culture Trip. 20 December 2017. https://theculturetrip.com/asia/thailand/articles/the-best-ukrainian-food-in-bangkok/
• “10 Traditional Polish Dishes You Need to Try to Get the Most of Warsaw’s Culinary Scene.” Culture Trip. 28 October 2019. https://theculturetrip.com/europe/poland/articles/10-polish-dishes-you-need-to-try-in-warsaw/