Russian food acquires its rich and varied character from the vast multicultural expanse of its country side. Its foundations were laid by the peasant food of the rural population in often harsh climates, with a combination of seasonally plentiful game, fish, poultry, mushrooms, berries, and wild honey.

Crops of wheat, rye, barley, & millet provide the ingredients for a plethora of breads, pancakes, cereals, kvass, beer, and of course vodka.

Flavorful soups and stews centered on seasonal or storable produce, fish, and meats make up the main dishes of a traditional Russian meal.

Common Russian dishes include: Russian borscht (pictured on the right), Okroshka, Turya, Botvin`ya, Shchi, Ukha, Rassolnik, Kal'ya, Solyanka, Lapsha, Studen´ (or Kholodets), Kotlety, Pelmeni, Pirozhki, Shashlyk, Blini, Syrniki, & Vatrushka.

Russian restaurants in Qingdao.