Savor the Taste of Russia in Thailand’s Food Scene

If you’re a foodie looking for a unique dining experience in Thailand, why not explore what Russian cuisine has to offer? Despite being a lesser-known cuisine in Thailand, Russian food packs a flavorful punch that will leave your taste buds satisfied. In this article, we’ll explore the history behind Russian cuisine, the ingredients commonly used, some famous Russian dishes, and where to find Russian cuisine in Thailand.

The History of Russian Cuisine

Russian cuisine reflects its tumultuous history, with influences from the Mongol invasion, the Tsarist era, the Soviet period, and European migration. Russian cuisine began to take shape during the 15th century, when Moscow became the capital of Russia. Over the next few centuries, rich dishes using meat, dairy, and grains became popular, and by the 19th century, Russian cuisine had become a symbol of national pride.

Common Ingredients in Russian Cuisine

Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and rich flavors, with common ingredients including meats like beef, pork, and chicken, as well as root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. Dairy products like sour cream and cottage cheese are also staples in many dishes, as are grains like buckwheat and barley. Other ingredients that give Russian cuisine its unique flavor include horseradish, dill, and parsley.

Famous Russian Dishes

One of the most iconic dishes in Russian cuisine is borscht, a hearty soup made with beets, cabbage, and meat. Another popular Russian dish is beef stroganoff, consisting of tender strips of beef served in a creamy sauce and usually accompanied by egg noodles. Pelmeni are another classic Russian dish, similar to dumplings and typically stuffed with meat or mushrooms. And let’s not forget about blinis, thin crepes often served with caviar or sour cream.

Where to Find Russian Cuisine in Thailand

Fortunately for those in Thailand, Russian restaurants are not hard to come by, particularly in tourist hotspots like Bangkok and Pattaya. The Russian Market in Pattaya is a great place to start, with a variety of restaurants and street stalls offering authentic Russian dishes like pelmeni, borscht, and stroganoff. In Bangkok, you can find Russian cuisine at Petra Restaurant and Bar, which offers a unique fusion of Thai, Russian, and Ukrainian cuisine. Another popular spot for Russian food in Bangkok is Volga Restaurant, which has been serving up classic dishes for over 20 years.

Conclusion

Exploring Russian cuisine in Thailand is a great way to expand your culinary horizons and try something new. With its rich flavors and history, Russian cuisine is not to be missed. Whether you’re in Bangkok or Pattaya, be sure to check out the Russian restaurants and markets for a taste of Russia in Thailand.

FAQ

What is Russian cuisine known for?

Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and rich flavors, with common ingredients including meats like beef, pork, and chicken, root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions, and dairy products like sour cream and cottage cheese.

What are some famous Russian dishes?

Some famous Russian dishes include borscht (a beet soup), beef stroganoff (tender beef in a creamy sauce with noodles), pelmeni (dumplings typically filled with meat or mushrooms), and blinis (thin crepes typically served with caviar or sour cream).

Where can I find Russian cuisine in Thailand?

Russian cuisine can be found in various parts of Thailand, particularly in tourist hotspots like Bangkok and Pattaya. The Russian Market in Pattaya is a great place to start, with a variety of restaurants and street stalls offering authentic Russian dishes. In Bangkok, you can find Russian cuisine at Petra Restaurant and Bar or Volga Restaurant.

Is Russian cuisine popular in Thailand?

While Russian cuisine may not be as popular in Thailand as other international cuisines, it is still widely available in certain areas and is a great option for those looking for something new and unique to try.

What makes Russian cuisine unique?

Russian cuisine is unique due to its rich history and the various influences that have shaped it over the centuries, from the Mongol invasion to European migration. Its hearty and flavorful dishes often incorporate ingredients like horseradish, dill, and parsley.

Is Russian cuisine spicy?

Russian cuisine is not typically known for being spicy, but rather for its rich and savory flavors. However, some dishes like shashlik (marinated and grilled meat skewers) may have some spice and heat.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Russian cuisine?

While Russian cuisine is known for its use of meats and dairy, there are still vegetarian and vegan options available, such as the classic dish of mushrooms in sour cream sauce. Additionally, some Russian restaurants may offer vegetarian or vegan versions of popular dishes.

References

• “Russian Cuisine.” Encyclopedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Russian-cuisine. Accessed 21 August 2021.
• Stolovaya No. 57. “Russian Food You Have to Try.” https://stolovaya57.com/en/russian-food-you-have-to-try/. Accessed 21 August 2021.
• “Top 5 Russian Restaurants in Bangkok.” https://www.timeout.com/bangkok/restaurants/top-5-russian-restaurants-in-bangkok. Accessed 21 August 2021.