If you’re thinking about jetting off to the Ukraine for your next adventure, I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed. The country is full of impressive colourful buildings, historic landmarks and plenty of other cultural highlights, but one thing you might not think to research before your trip is the drink.
People travel to new places knowing full well they’ll be sampling the local cuisine, but few ever stop to think about the different drinks they might be offered during their trip. Keep reading to find out more about the Ukraine’s very best (and most traditional) beverages.
Kvass
If you really want to blend in with the locals, grab yourself a bottle of kvass. Popular during the highs of summer, this refreshing beverage is made by soaking rye bread in hot water and is occasionally flavoured with honey and various fragrant herbs. Traditionally, this drink is considered a symbol of wellbeing, so you’re sure to feel refreshed and revitalised after taking a sip!
Kysil
Taking the little ones along to the Ukraine, too? Offer them a cup of kysil and they’ll fall in love with the culture just as much as you will. This drink has an unusual consistency that is almost like jelly, which is achieved by adding starch to the mixture and boiling it. Kysil is usually flavoured with fruits, so it has a delicious sweet taste that kids are sure to enjoy.
Spotykach
This beverage however, is definitely not for the kids! Berries and spices are infused with vodka for two weeks before it’s served – it is said to make those who drink it stumble, which is hardly surprising. While you’re in the country, try to sample all four flavours of this alcoholic favourite: berry, mint, rowanberry and lemon.
Ryazhenka
If you’re feeling brave, why not sample ryazhenka? This popular fermented milk drink has been around in eastern European countries for hundreds of years, but if you’re not familiar with the flavour, the sourness can be extremely overpowering. Despite its taste, ryazhenka does wonders for your digestive system, so don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!
However you’re planning to spend your Ukrainian getaway, be sure to taste some of the famed beverages of the country – perhaps don’t go too overboard on the spotykach, though.
