Russians joke that they can make kasha (porridge) from anything, even an
Guryev porridge is a classic Russian dish. Tender semolina combined with berries and nuts turn the dish into a dessert. The porridge was invented in the early 19th century by Zakhar Kuzmin, a peasant who served as a cook in the house of Russia’s Finance Minister Dmitry Guryev. The official was so carried away by this splendid porridge that it eventually took his name. And it was also the favorite dish of Russian Emperor Alexander III. The recipe has remained unchanged since tsarist times.
Russians often compare great things with tsars (have you ever heard about the tsar bell?) and this porridge is among them. It’s made from pearl barley and was a favorite dish of Peter the Great and ballet dancer Maya Plisetskaya. Russians make it with mushrooms and bake it in a pot.
Buckwheat, or
If children eat Hercules porridge for breakfast, they will have the strength of the legendary hero — as many Russian mothers tell their children. In Russia, oat porridge with or without milk is considered one of the most nutritious breakfasts; rich in fiber and good for digestion. Add some fruit and honey for a sweet kick.
This traditional Russian grain is a wild ancestor of modern wheat. It’s healthy thanks to its high levels of protein and hypoallergenic properties. Porridge made from
Don’t know what to cook for the breakfast? Here are some ideas for the whole week.
If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.
Subscribe
to our newsletter!
Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox