The Viking guide to

Russia

“Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.” - Winston Churchill

Unveil the mysteries of enigmatic Russia on one of our river or ocean cruises.

As the largest country in the world, it’s not surprising that Russia has a lot to offer its visitors. From opulent architecture and internationally renowned historic sites, to idyllic rural landscapes and quirky cultural traditions, this is one destination that seems to have it all. Since it’s so vast, it’s a bit more of a challenge to tick off all the must-sees compared with parts of Europe, but

wherever you choose to visit - and however long you stay - there’s no doubt that the memories will last a lifetime.

One of the top places to see is, of course, St. Petersburg - a city with an increasingly vibrant cultural climate. Often nicknamed ‘the Venice of the North,’ it’s many bridges are

a constant reminder that wherever you are in the city, you’ll never be far from water. Most people who have visited before will tell you to expect the unexpected - including, but not limited to - the fact that if you travel just north of the city along the Gulf of Finland, you’ll come across a stretch of clean, quiet beaches that are perfect for sunbathing.

Discover Russiawith Viking

One of the oldest towns in the Far East, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is situated along the Avachinskaya Gulf, on the Pacific Coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula. The area is surrounded by soaring, snow-capped mountains and towering volcanoes that can be reached by a short drive, hike, or even a helicopter ride.

Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Experience life like a local when you visit Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskyon our North Pacific Passage ocean cruise.

Founded back in 1740, today, the city is recognised as the administrative centre of the Kamchatka territory, as well as a fishing hub renowned for its processing and manufacturing industries.

Must sees

Overlooking the waterfront, the Kamchatka Regional Museum houses an eclectic combination of artefacts, paintings and objects depicting Kamchatka’s history throughout the centuries. The museum makes for an interesting visit - particularly if you’re a history buff - but be sure to take a phrase-book or smartphone with you as the signs aren’t in English.

If the primary reason for your trip to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is to see the volcanoes, make sure you leave a bit of time to visit the Vulkanarium. One of the town’s newest museums, it opened in the Summer of 2017 and gives an excellent insight into the

nearby volcanoes, both historically and in the present day. Wholly interactive, the museum was intended to offer visitors a unique chance to experience the sights, sounds and sensations a person would feel when climbing the volcanoes, only without having to work up a sweat.

The area’s biggest and most impressive religious building, Trinity Cathedral, is definitely a must-see. With its gleaming white exterior and gold domed roof, this magnificent place of worship can be seen from pretty much anywhere in the city. It may look like something out of an old folk-tale, but in actual fact, construction didn’t start on this church until the 21st century and still isn’t completed today. Just as the view of the Cathedral itself is impressive, so too are the scenes overlooking the bay.

Food

Although its food scene isn’t anywhere near as extensive as in

some of the bigger cities, there is still a good variety of places to eat in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. The majority of the restaurants can be found in the centre of town, although there are a few scattered around nearer the waterfront. Great for seafood-lovers, San Marino serves a variety of seafood dishes including Kamchatka crab, scallops, halibut and shellfish, or there’s Italian eatery Da Vinci, which is popular with locals and visitors alike.

Shopping

When it comes to souvenir shopping, some of the most popular options in this area involve things that are best eaten straight away. The seafood in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is one of the best ways to spend your money, and of course the caviar. If you do want something to take home, some local vodka is always a good choice, as are the carvings and crafts made by many of the locals.

Situated on a bend of the Volga River, the town of Uglich is rich in Russian beauty and authenticity. Founded back in the year 937, Uglich is one of the oldest places in the country, and as such, offers detailed insight into Russia’s past and present way of life.Uglich

v

Explore Uglich when you visit as part of our Waterways of the Tsars river cruise.

The town of Uglich became a principality in 1218, and has since survived a Mongol invasion, as well as attacks by Lithuanians and Tartars. Some of Uglich’s most popular sites include the jade-domed Kremlin, which is home to one of the town’s oldest museums, and the traditional red-bricked palace.

Must sees

One of Uglich’s most iconic attractions has got to be the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood. Its eye-catching red facade and ornate blue and gold domes have come to be synonymous with the town, and since it was built in 1692, have remained an integral part of its cultural and historical landscape. According to legend, the church was built on the spot where Dmitry of Uglich - Ivan the Terrible’s only son - died in 1591 after injuring himself on a sword while suffering an epileptic fit (although other sources say he was murdered). Go inside the church itself, and you’ll see a large wall hanging that

depicts this ancient historical legend.

Another popular site is the Resurrection Monastery (Voskresenskiy Monastyr), one of Uglich’s most impressive architectural features. Topped with glittering onion-shaped domes, and with a striking white-washed exterior, this religious complex was built during the late 1600s and houses various structures including a belfry and a cathedral.

If you like traditional architecture, Uglich is a great place to visit. While you’re in the area, spend some time at the Kremlin, a fascinating site overlooking the Volga River. This magnificent onion-domed building is an exercise in the elegance of traditional Russian architecture, and also happens to house a wealth of fascinating historical artefacts, sculptures, paintings and rare texts.

Food

As in many of Russia’s smaller towns, the food in Uglich is about as traditional as it gets, so if you come with an open mind, and

want to try some authentic local delicacies, the chances are you won’t be disappointed. As well as dishes such as borscht (a vibrantly coloured beetroot soup often served with creme fraiche or natural yoghurt) and Russian potato dumplings, visitors to Uglich will likely come across the town’s speciality cheese factory, which is perfect for picking up a souvenir or two.

Shopping

As you set off from the river to explore the town, you’ll come across numerous stalls, kiosks and vendors selling traditional crafts and trinkets. Uglich is also famous for its watches, so if you’re in search of some souvenirs, a visit to the town’s watch factory may well be in order. Be sure to make your purchases from the factory itself, rather than any of the street vendors, as these aren’t likely to be authentic. Further towards the centre of town, you’ll find several shops selling various kinds of traditional Russian dress and accessories too, which can also make for interesting travel trinkets.

One of the oldest cities on Russia’s Golden Ring, Yaroslavl is surrounded by two rivers - the Volga and the Kotorosl - and boasts more ornate domed churches than anywhere else in the country. The city centre is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and much of the architecture in this quarter was constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries. Yaroslavl

Aside from the magnificent buildings, the promenade that stretches down the Volga and Kotorosl rivers is undoubtedly one of Yaroslavl’s most picturesque sights. While you’re in the city, be sure to leave some time for a stroll to soak up the scenery and atmosphere.

More than 1000 years old, Yaroslavl was founded by - and takes its name from - the son of Russia’s first Christian prince, Vladimir the Great. Today, the city’s coat of arms depicts a bear carrying an axe. This image pays homage to the time Yaroslavl the Wise fought off the attack of a pagan tribe - with a bear in tow - using nothing but his axe.

Must-sees

Many of Yaroslavl’s most iconic sights and attractions are situated within close distance of each other, in an area of the city that benefits from the protection of the surrounding Kotorosl and Volga rivers. Must-sees for first time visitors include the Church of Elijah the Prophet, a magnificent religious building constructed back in 1650 by a group of fur traders. Famed for its intricate, vibrant frescoes, the church is closed to the public when it rains to help protect the artwork from weather damage.

When it comes to culture, no trip to Yaroslavl would be complete without a visit to the Music and Time Museum. Quirky and eclectic, it houses magician

John Mostoslavsky’s extensive collection of clocks and musical instruments - there’s everything from the humble harmonica to the fascinatingly complex hurdy gurdy. While you explore the museum, the staff will likely treat you to a spontaneous musical performance using the instruments on display - many of which have been carefully preserved and are still in perfect working order today.

Those with a taste for high art should be sure to leave time on the itinerary to spend an hour or two exploring the exhibition rooms of the Yaroslavl Art Museum at the Metropolitan Palace. Dating back to the 1600s, these impressive chambers are home to

Get a taste for the real Russia when you experience Yaroslavl

on our Waterways of the Tsars river cruise.

a series of permanent religious art collections created between the 13th and 18th centuries.

Food

The culinary scene in Yaroslavl is quite varied, so there’s something to suit pretty much all budgets, tastes and requirements. For excellent value, quick eats, head to the upper mall in the city’s Aura Shopping Centre where you’ll find small kiosks selling both traditional and international dishes (meat-lovers will want to try Meat Me, a stall renowned for its delicious grilled kebabs).

They say variety is the spice of life,

and if this is what you’re after, Buffet No.1 is a great option. As its name suggests, this is a self-serve buffet restaurant serving a huge range of cuisines including Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern, American and of course, traditional. Again, it’s on the lower end of the price scale, but this restaurant’s Art Nouveau facade and elegant interior make for a very pleasant mealtime stop off.

For traditional Russian fare, Podbelka comes highly recommended. The site of Yaroslavl’s original Soviet dumpling cafe (which dates back to the 1930s), today, this 24-hour spot serves authentic plemeni filled

with either meat or vegetables, and usually attracts a youthful, vibrant demographic.

Shopping

For big name brands and contemporary gadgets, look no further than the city’s Aura shopping centre. Large, bustling and ultra modern, the building also has a food court on the top floor, which is perfect for a mid-shopping snack or spot of lunch. If you’re on the hunt for some more traditional souvenirs, Yaroslavl also has a good selection of independent sellers where you can pick up authentic Russian crafts, costumes and trinkets.

MandrogyTucked away on the left bank of the Svir River is the beautiful Mandrogy, a truly idyllic example of Russian village life. Historically a fishing settlement and mill town, it was badly damaged during WWII and subsequently relied upon the financial input of a small group of Russian investors to help restore the place back to its former glory.

In the mid-late 1990s, after the fall of the Soviet Union, a restoration process began in Mandrogy and much of the town’s traditional architecture was given a new lease of life. Today, it can be found in the area of the village called Upper Mandrogy.

Must-sees

Many people pass through this pretty village when travelling between Moscow and St. Petersburg, and it’s a port of call on our popular Waterways of the Tsars river cruise.

A highlight for first time visitors definitely has to be the area in and around Upper Mandrogy, where the winding cobbled streets and traditional chocolate-box style houses offer a real authentic insight into life

for village locals. Since the town had to be rebuilt after WWII, many of the buildings only date as far back as the 1990s, but everything still feels incredibly traditional, and exploring on foot is very picturesque.

This same area also houses several of Mandrogy’s museums, all of which are perfect if you’re in the mood to spend an hour or two taking in the local culture. One of the most popular, is the Vodka Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of more than 2,800 different varieties of the spirit. Originating from across the entirety of the Russian Federation, the vodka is displayed alongside plaques that give detailed information about how each variety is produced and distilled.

Other popular Mandrogy attractions are the numerous authentic craft

workshops and demonstrations. Here, you’ll be able to see examples of painting, woodwork, lacework, wood carving and pottery, as well as the making and decoration of the iconic Matryoshka dolls. Watch the locals at work - perhaps you’ll even pick up some crafting tips of your own - and leave room in your luggage for a souvenir or two!

Food

For traditional Russian delicacies, head to Restaurant Number 32. Here, they serve pirogi or piroshki - small steamed buns that are usually filled with berries, mushrooms, meat and herbs, or even sweetened with condensed milk. Another local favourite is kvas (sometimes spelled kvass), a low alcohol beverage made from fermented bread.

Discover the delights of traditional Mandrogyon our Waterways of the Tsars river cruise

v

KizhiSituated in the middle of Europe’s second largest lake - Lake Onega - Kizhi island is one of the most picturesque of all Russia’s travel destinations. Easily the most popular attraction on the island is the striking Transfiguration Church - its domes, spires and arches having been intricately carved from locally cut scots pine.

Get an insight into Russia’s religious history when you stop off in Kizhi -one of the destinations on our 13-day Waterways of the Tsars river cruise.

During the 16th century, Kizhi was declared a pogost (parish centre) by the Russian Orthodox Church, and began producing enough iron and timber to maintain more than 100 villages in the surrounding area. Between 1771 and the 1950s, the island’s popularity decreased; many residents moved on to find homes elsewhere, and traditional villages were abandoned. Today, this somewhat turbulent history is evident in the form of the striking wooden relics that form part of one of Russia’s most magnificent open air museums.

Must-sees

Of course, Kizhi’s main draw for

visitors is the incredible 22-domed Transfiguration Church, but aside from this, there’s still a great deal to explore. During your time on the island, visit the Church of the Resurrection of Lazarus - the oldest wooden church that still stands in Russia today. Moved to Kizhi island from the Morum Monastery on the eastern shore of Lake Onega, the church dates back to the 14th century, and has since come to be known as a popular pilgrimage destination. Said to have been named after a pagan shrine, Kizhi translates as “Place of Merrymaking.” According to local legend, this iconic religious building is imbued with special healing powers, and, alongside the many chapels,

make the island a very spiritual place.

If you’re visiting Kizhi island during the summer, take some time to stroll around the landscape, marvelling at the area’s stunning natural beauty. At certain times of the day, you’ll be able to watch as the church domes are illuminated by the sun’s phosphorescent glow - a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Food

Arriving on the island, you’ll see a small cafe serving traditional Russian food and drink, including delicacies such as kalitki (little pies usually filled with mashed potato and vegetables or meat), dried or cured fish, local beer and a variety of spirits.

St. PetersburgMystery, grandeur and opulence abound in St. Petersburg. Once Russia’s imperial capital, this magnificent city is home to awe-inspiring architecture, vast waterways, and an air of mystery unlike anything you’ll experience elsewhere in the world.

Until the fall of the Russian Empire in 1917, St. Petersburg had a solid reputation as the country’s industrial and economic hub, and although the Revolution saw Moscow take its place as the official capital, to this day, the city still retains a huge sense of authority when it comes to social and cultural affairs.

With no less than 342 bridges, it’s perhaps unsurprising that St. Petersburg has earned itself the nickname of the “The Venice of the North”. The mighty River Neva is the main reason for such comparisons, but the similarities between these two canal-filled cities continue far beyond this. Wander through the city and you’ll pass stunning neoclassical mansions, expansive plazas and ornate baroque churches - all of

which wouldn’t look out of place in Italy’s most romantic city.

Must-sees

When it comes to art and culture, you really are spoilt for choice in St. Petersburg. The city’s world famous Hermitage Museum houses a vast permanent collection featuring everything from Italian Renaissance paintings, to works by Spanish, Flemish, Dutch, French and Armenian artists. As far as highlights go, there are simply too many to name; just be sure to set aside a few hours - at least - to explore the vast gallery spaces, and you certainly won’t be disappointed. For an in-depth insight into Russia’s cultural history, take a look at one of the dedicated exhibitions covering both halves of the 18th century, or transport

yourself back to Ancient Egypt, when you discover the collection of art and artefacts dated from late 4,000 to 1,000 BC. Enjoy a Privileged Access Tour of The Hermitage on our river cruise.

To continue your cultural tour of Russia, pay a visit to the Russian Museum - a truly stunning collection which stretches across no less than four magnificent palaces. Home to the largest array of Russian art in the world, the museum is a must for art and history lovers alike, although many visit for the architecture alone, as it’s simply out of this world.

If you have time, get yourself tickets to one of the many cultural performances that are showing in and around the city. There’s everything from the iconic National Ballet and

classical concerts, to popular music acts, so you won’t be short of things to choose from. For something a bit contemporary, stop off at the Street Art Museum, or the Erata Museum - St. Petersburg’s answer to the Tate Modern.

For anyone visiting the city during the summer months - specifically between May and July - it would be almost impossible to miss the ‘Stars of the White Nights.’ This one-night festival includes performing arts and a spectacular firework display overlooking the River Neva.

Food

The food scene in St. Petersburg is varied, eclectic and bursting with choice - much like the city itself. As in many large urban destinations, international cuisine is pretty

popular, and across the city, you’ll find restaurants serving everything from French, Italian, Japanese, and even Armenian, as well as, of course, traditional Russian delicacies. If you find yourself in the historic centre, Zoom Cafe is always an excellent choice. With an extensive menu - comprising everything from teriyaki salmon to authentic Russian potato pancakes - this cosy eatery is always buzzing, and it’s easy to see why. While you eat, browse the many bookshelves for something to read, or even play a board game - there’s plenty to choose from!

Also in the historic centre, Yat Restaurant is ideally placed for anyone visiting the nearby Hermitage museum, offering culture enthusiasts a convenient spot for lunch or dinner. Sample a delicious bowl of shchi

(traditional cabbage soup), washed down with one of the many different flavoured vodkas.

Shopping

Antique emporiums, fresh food markets, independent boutiques and souvenir kiosks - when it comes to shopping, St. Petersburg has just about everything you could wish for (and even more besides). If you happen to be heading for a picnic, or simply want some tasty treats to take home, be sure to stop off at Kupetz Eliseevs. Situated in the city’s breath-taking historic centre, this establishment has earned itself a reputation as one of St. Petersburg’s most opulent market grocery shops - and rightly so. Even if you’re not here to make a purchase, the elaborate window displays will have you gasping with delight.

When it comes to Russia, St. Petersburg is a must. Lose yourself in its imperial past when you travel on our Majestic Fjords and Vibrant Russia ocean cruise.

MoscowWhatever the season, Russia’s iconic capital is sure to make an impression on visitors and locals alike. Whether it’s your first time in the city, or your fifteenth, there’s always something new and exciting to get your teeth into.

Throughout Moscow, it’s impossible not to notice the many hits and hommages to the city’s historical and political past. At Bunker-42 Museum, spend an hour or two immersing yourself in the intricacies of the Soviet system, or get a real insight into the lives of those who suffered in the labour camps when you visit the Gulag History Museum. Even something as simple as a trip on the metro will give you the sense that you’ve stepped back in time.

Must-sees

No stay in Moscow, however fleeting, would be complete without a visit to the Kremlin. Once the hub of the Russian Orthodox Church, this magnificent piece of architecture

sits on the north bank of the Moscow River, and is surrounded by a 2.25km long stretch of high wall. To take advantage of the best views, head over to Sofiskaya nab on the other side of the river, where you’ll be able to see this impressive complex in its entirety. Just outside the Kremlin’s east wall is Red Square, another of the capital’s absolute must-sees. A former market square, the area was used to carry out high profile executions during the 1600s, as well as being the site of several military parades under Soviet rule.

For a chance to let off some steam, a visit to Gorky Park is a popular choice, and although the name might suggest green spaces and tranquility, this isn’t exactly the order of the day. Step inside Maxim Gorky’s Central

Park of Culture and Leisure, and you can pick from a vast array of activities including cycling, table tennis and pétanque. If you happen to visit during the winter months, you’ll witness the park transform into the city’s largest ice-rink, as the ponds freeze over and the area becomes one giant skater’s paradise. Throughout the park, various art exhibits are on display, but the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art certainly takes centre stage.

To continue on your cultural journey, stop off at the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, or perhaps catch a performance at the Bolshoi. This stunning 6-tier theatre has played host to some of the finest works of ballet and opera over the past 200+ years, and is really worth a visit, even if it’s just to soak up the atmosphere.

Marvel at the majesty of Moscow - one of the stops on our Waterways of the Tsars river cruise.

Food

Visitors to Gorky Park will be pleased to note that when the hunger pangs strike, there’s no need to leave the park in search of sustenance - simply pay a visit to the Gorky Park Food Row for local delicacies such as khachapuri (cheese pastry), as well as falafels, burgers and other international eats.

Elsewhere, it’s probably not surprising that Moscow isn’t short of great places to eat and drink. If you like a bit of hustle and bustle with your lunch, Dannislovsky Market is a great place to people watch while picking up a few picnic essentials. Dating right back to the Soviet era, this undercover market is a food-lover’s treasure trove. There are kiosks serving everything from dumplings and Pho, to traditional

Russian fare, fresh fruits, vegetables and local meats, pickles and cheeses.

For something a bit less local, Björn is a popular choice. This ultra-modern restaurant serves Nordic cuisine that can only really be described as experimental; the ingredients might be traditional, but the presentation, styling and flavour combinations seem to inhabit a whole other time - one most people are yet to experience. Highlights from the menu include starters of strawberry ice with rhubarb and cucumber, and mains such as porridge with smoked venison and barley malt.

Shopping

When it comes to shopping, Moscow certainly isn’t short of places to spend

some serious rubles. Izmaylovsky Market is the perfect place to get yourself some souvenirs to take home: matryoshka dolls, military garb and Soviet artefacts are just a few examples of what’s on offer. There are also several boutiques, cafes and even a couple of museums, making this a great way to spend an hour or two.

Situated in Arbat & Khamovniki, the Association of Artists of the Decorative Arts is another excellent souvenir spot. In this collection of shops, you’ll find arts, crafts and trinkets handmade by local artists. Some of the highlights include paintings, ceramics and delicately woven dresses, jumpers and cardigans.

FoodOften intriguing and delicious in equal measure, Russian cuisine combines meat, vegetables and fish with hearty warming soups and strong spirits - perfect for staying warm during the cold winter months. For something light, try a blini with smoked salmon, cream cheese and herbs, or swap the toppings for fresh fruit, jam and cream for an after dinner alternative.

Russian BliniThis traditional Russian dish is somewhat like pancakes or crêpes, but made with a yeast dough that is allowed to rise. Buckwheat, a staple flour of colder climates, is typically incorporated.

Often, the blini are made bite-sized and served with a variety of toppings from savory caviar and smoked salmon to sweet cream and fruit for a dessert.

Ingredients

166g unbleached flour

170g buckwheat flour

5g salt

2 tsp active dry yeast

118g milk, warmed (80-100°F / 26-38°C)

19g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

2 large eggs, separated

57g unsalted butter for frying

Method1. Place flours, salt and yeast in a

bowl, stirring to combine.

2. Make a well in centre; add milk.

3. Mix until smooth; cover and proof about 1 hour.

4. Stir in melted butter and egg yolks.

5. Beat egg whites until stiff; fold in.

6. Cover and let stand for 20 minutes.

7. Melt some of butter in a nonstick pan on medium high, dropping quarter-sized amounts of dough into pan.

8. Cook on 1 side about 1 minute; flip and cook for 30 seconds more, cooking a few at a time until the batter is finished.

Serving Suggestion Serve with caviar or smoked salmon, garnished with chopped hard-boiled eggs, minced onion, crème fraîche and dill.

Prep time: 8 minutes.

Proof time: 1 hour.

Cook time: 1 hour.

Makes 16 servings.

Russian BorschtThis beetroot soup is a staple of Russia and eastern Europe. Thought to have originated in Ukraine, its name is derived from Yiddish. There are as many recipes as there are cooks: it can be

thick and hearty or clear and light; served hot in winter or cold in summer. This hearty version is made with beef stock, but it can be substituted if you’re making a meat-free version.

Ingredients

Filling:

1,890 ml low sodium beef broth

450ml tomato sauce

170g cabbage, shredded

35g carrots, shredded

100g onions, thinly sliced

8g sugar

300g raw beetroot, cut into strips

Salt and pepper to taste

10ml vinegar

Garnish:

38-45g sour cream

Handful of fresh dill, finely chopped

Method

1. Combine broth, tomato sauce, cabbage, carrots and onions in a large pot and bring to boil over medium heat.

2. Stir in sugar; simmer 20 minutes, skimming occasionally, until vegetables are tender.

3. Add the beets.

4. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Add vinegar and continue cooking until the beets are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Serving Suggestion Garnish with sour cream and dill or experiment by adding julienned beets, celery or cucumber; chopped green onions or thinly sliced red onion; curly parsley or sliced hard-boiled eggs.

Prep time: 7 minutes.

Cook time: 35 minutes.

Makes 4 servings.

Stolichny SaladThis Russian dish, often served on New Year’s Eve, and also known as Olivier Salad, was invented in the 1860s by Lucien Olivier, chef of Moscow’s celebrated Hermitage restaurant. It became the restaurant’s signature dish--a blend

of vegetables, chicken and two popular Russian staples, sausage and sour cream. Doktorskaya (“doctor sausage”) is so named because of its exceptionally nutritious meat.

Ingredients

Dice the following ingredients to the size of peas:

100g cooked chicken

50g cooked Doktorskaya sausage

100g cooked carrots

50g gherkin

100g cucumber

50g cooked green peas

50g mayonnaise

35g sour cream

1.5g salt

1.5 g pepper

Garnish:

2 hard boiled quail eggs, cut in half

2 cherry tomatoes, cut in half

1/4 cup micro greens

Method

1. Place all salad ingredients in a medium bowl and stir to combine.

2. Divide onto 4 salad plates, garnishing each portion with halg a quail egg and half a cherry tomato.

3. Sprinkle micro greens around salad and serve immediately.

Prep time: 20 minutes.

Makes 4 servings.

SirnikiA typical dish of Russia, this delightfully different dessert is made with fresh farmers’ cheese. In Ukraine, it is often served for breakfast, so you can try it for brunch too. The

farmers’ cheese is very mild, and a good topping for it is strawberry ragout (pictured here), but you could experiment with sour cream, jam, or apple sauce.

IngredientsSirniki:

907g farmers’ cheese*

2 lg eggs

24g sugar

2 tsp sugar or to taste

2.5g salt

125g flour, plus additional for dusting

Zest from each 1 orange and 1 lemon

15ml vegetable oil

Strawberry ragoût:

96g sugar

118ml red wine

Juice from 1 orange

Juice from 1 lemon

1.5g cornstarch

320g strawberries, hulled and cut into quarters

15ml Amaretto

Garnish:

60g whipped cream

6 mint sprigs

MethodSirniki:

1. Preheat oven to 140°F (60°C).

2. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, place farmers’ cheese, eggs, sugar and salt; mix well.

4. Add flour and zests, stirring to incorporate. Generously dust a plate with flour.

5. Form pancakes about 2-3 inches (50-76 mm) across and dredge in flour, passing pancake from hand to hand to remove any excess; set aside.

6. Place oil in skillet over medium-high and cook just until golden

brown; transfer immediately to prepared baking sheet and bake 7-8 minutes.

Strawberry ragoût:

7. Meanwhile, place a small saucepan over medium heat and add sugar, wine, orange and lemon juice.

8. Stir in cornstarch and strawberries and cook, stirring gently, until thickened.

9. Stir in Amaretto; remove from heat.

10. Arrange Sirniki on dessert plates.

11. Spoon ragout over the top, and garnish with whipped cream and mint. *Or substitute small-curd cottage cheese, drained well in a fine strainer.

Prep time: 15 minutes.

Cook time: 7-8 minutes

Makes 6 servings.

Russian OladiThese are light, fluffy Russian pancakes made with kefir, a cultured sour milk. They are like plump little pillows, a bit tart, creating a nice contrast to a sweet topping. Chewier and less cakey than an American-

style pancake, you can try them plain or with sour cream, fruit preserves or even a drizzle of condensed milk.

Ingredients3 large eggs

473g kefir or buttermilk

36g sugar

2.5g salt

250g flour

Method1. Whisk eggs in a large bowl until well beaten.

2. Whisk in kefir, sugar and salt.

3. Add flour; stir to combine.

4. Heat a nonstick griddle to medium low;

5. add batter and cook until golden, about 2 minutes, lowering heat if necessary.

6. Turn; cook 2 minutes more.

7. Transfer to a plate; repeat with remaining batter.

8. Serve hot with your choice of accompaniments.

Prep time: 5 minutes.

Cook time: 16 minutes.

Makes 5-6 servings.

Russian PelmeniThese traditional Russian dumplings are usually filled with meat before being garnished with a selection of herbs. Often batch-cooked, they are a common convenience food in Russia, as many families will spend the long winter months making them by hand,

in preparation for when the lighter evenings come and cooking is no longer top of the list. If need be, they can be frozen and then boiled or fried when required.

IngredientsDough:

1 tsp vegetable oil

1 tsp salt

200g warm water

690g white flour

Filling:

500g ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

1.5 tbsp ice cold water

1 tbsp coarse salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Topping:

Handful of parsley, chopped.

Method1. Add all the dough ingredients into a large

bowl, then mix until they come together to form a smooth, elastic dough.

2. Cover with a kitchen towel and

leave to rest for 30 minutes.

3. Next, dust a baking sheet lightly with a sprinkling of flower.

4. Mix the ground beef, onion, salt and pepper together in a separate bowl, using either your hands or a fork to combine.

5. Roll out a portion of the dough very thinly on a lightly floured surface and use a cookie cutter or wine glass to cut out 2 1/2 inch rounds to make the first dumpling.

6. Cover the rest of the dough in the meantime to make sure it doesn’t dry out.

7. Place a small teaspoon of the ground beef filling one one side of the dough circle, then fold the other side over and pinch the edges to seal, forming a crescent shape.

8. Join the ends and pinch them together, before placing on the prepared baking sheet.

9. Repeat with the rest of the mixture and dough, then freeze the dumplings for 30 minutes to stop them sticking together.

10. Next, bring a large pan of salted water to the boil, then lower the heat and drop the dumplings gently in.

11. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the dumplings begin to float to the surface of the water.

12. Stir, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, then drain and garnish with parsley before serving.

Makes 12 dumplings.

Your memoriesFor full details of our Waterways of the Tsars cruise: https://bit.ly/2Mnsr79

Brian Harrison

Rosemary Keyte

David Goodall

Debra Smith

Share your #MyVikingStoryon instagram