Welcome to Russia

Welcome to Russia , the world’s largest country, with 11 time zones and a diverse landscape. Many important writers and artists have come from this land. Whether you are in one of its great cities—such as Moscow or St. Petersburg —or visiting the icy cold tundra villages of Siberia , Russia has a wonderful culture and history to share. Let’s look at the hearty cuisine that feeds Russia 's citizens.

Russians have been known for growing grains. Rye , barley, oats, and millet are some of the most widely grown crops, and you can find them in many Russian dishes and breads. Bread is an important staple in the Russian diet. Historically, they prepared a “Black Bread” using rye grain that had been crushed into flour. Black Bread is thick, crusty, and similar to rye bread. Russians also boil grains in salt water to make a simple dish called Kasha. If they are lucky enough to have them around, an egg or some onions are added to this dish.

Two other popular Russian dishes are Shchi, a cabbage soup, and Borsch, a beet soup with a red color and earthy flavor. To make these warming, nutritious soups, vegetables and cabbage are simmered with fresh herbs.

One food that many Russians just can’t live without is the pickle. That’s right, those jars of preserved cucumbers and vegetables in your refrigerator find their way into many well-loved Russian dishes. In Russia , pickles garnish soups, mingle with potatoes, or are just eaten alone as a snack. Next time you pick up a pickle, think about our friends in Russia who might, at that very moment, be doing the exact same thing!

Try one of these delicious recipes that originated in Russia. Don't forget to ask an adult for help!

• Kasha with Spicy Maple Pecans
• Goulash Soup

This month's project:

• HalfSour Pickles

Holiday Fun:

• Worm Box Basics