Black peppercorns

Lightly salted salmon in oil marinade is a refined dish of Russian cuisine that embodies the traditions of homemade salting. Historically, salted fish was an integral part of the Russian table, allowing for long-term preservation of the product. In this recipe, the salmon is gently salted with added sugar, achieving a delicate balance of flavor. The marinade made from oil, vinegar, and spices highlights the fish's tenderness and adds zest. Onion rings and bay leaves enhance the aroma, creating a harmonious taste. The dish is perfect as an appetizer and can be served with rye bread or potatoes. Lightly salted salmon not only delights with its rich flavor but also serves as a source of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, making it indispensable for health-conscious eaters.

Pork knuckle in beer is one of the most famous symbols of German cuisine, especially popular in Bavaria. This recipe combines the rich, intense flavor of pork infused with the aromas of beer, spices, and a mustard-honey glaze. The beer not only tenderizes the meat but also adds depth to its flavor, while roasting to a golden crust makes the dish crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Historically, this recipe originated in Germany's beer houses where the combination of meat and beer became a tradition. The knuckle is served hot alongside sauerkraut or fresh vegetables to balance its rich taste. This dish is perfect for friendly gatherings and celebrations, creating an atmosphere of coziness and enjoyment of classic German culinary traditions.

Braised pork ribs with onions and apples is an exquisite combination of juicy meat, tender onions, and a light fruity tartness from the apples. This recipe comes from traditional European cuisine, where braising helps retain the meat's tenderness and enhance its flavor. The blend of aromatic spices, bay leaves, and pepper makes the dish rich and deep. Apples add a piquant sweetness that balances the meaty base. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of potatoes or vegetables, creating a hearty and comforting dinner. Thanks to slow braising, the ribs absorb all the aromas, becoming incredibly tender and flavorful. It is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, filling the home with warmth and appetizing scents.

Spicy brined mackerel is a traditional dish of Russian cuisine that embodies the harmony of taste and aroma. This method of salting fish delicacies has been known for centuries and allows for the preservation of the richness and tenderness of mackerel. The brine, infused with spicy notes of coriander, bay leaves, and two types of pepper, gives the fish a special piquant touch while highlighting its natural oiliness. A light sweetness from sugar balances the saltiness, creating a perfect flavor balance. After marination, mackerel acquires a firm yet soft texture, and serving it with red onion adds freshness and a hint of sharpness. This dish pairs wonderfully with potatoes or rye bread and makes an excellent appetizer for festive gatherings.

Beef dumplings are a classic dish of Russian cuisine, rooted in the ancient traditions of Ural and Siberian peoples. The combination of tender dough and juicy meat filling makes them an indispensable treat for family gatherings. The taste of dumplings is multifaceted: the softness of the dough harmoniously complements the rich meat juice, the aroma of spices and onions, creating a cozy, homey feeling. The dish's uniqueness lies in its versatility. Dumplings can be boiled in broth, served with sour cream, butter or vinegar, and also fried after boiling for a crispy crust. Bay leaves and peppercorns add spicy notes during cooking. This dish brings warmth and pleasure, uniting people at one table.

Tunguska brand chef Nikolay Bobrov shared the recipe with us.

The recipe was prepared in our kitchen by Andrey Zhdanov, chef of the Modus restaurant.

Satsivi is a jewel of Georgian cuisine, a dish embodying the richness of flavors and aromas of the Caucasus. It is an exquisite sauce made from walnuts, spices, and tender chicken that surprises with its depth of flavor despite its simplicity. Traditionally served cold, satsivi allows the ingredients to fully express themselves. The spiced walnut paste gives the meat a velvety texture while pomegranate seeds add a hint of acidity and sophistication. Originally prepared for holidays and feasts, it symbolizes the hospitality and culinary art of Georgian chefs. Modern adaptations allow for quick preparation without losing its authentic taste and soulfulness. A great choice for those wanting to experience Georgian hospitality without spending long hours in the kitchen.

Braised shoulder in thick sauce is a dish that embodies the perfect harmony of rich aromas and deep flavors. Tender lamb, infused with spices and herbs, simmers in a rich sauce, fully revealing its juicy taste. Onions and tomatoes add a gentle sweetness and acidity, while thyme and rosemary provide a unique aroma. The slow braising process allows the meat to become tender and juicy, soaking up the broth. This dish is perfect for cozy family evenings or festive gatherings, especially when paired with mashed potatoes or fresh bread that is delightful to dip into the thick, aromatic sauce.

Lamb noodle soup is a soulful dish of Tajik cuisine, infused with the aromas of spices and the rich flavor of broth. The recipe's origins trace back to the traditions of Eastern peoples, where lamb symbolizes nourishment and abundance. The slowly simmered meat enriches the broth with deep flavor notes, while cumin and black pepper add spicy expressiveness. The noodles gently absorb the richness of the broth, and vegetables add freshness and a light sweetness. This soup not only warms on cool days but also becomes a true culinary delight that brings family together at the table. Serving it with herbs completes the image of a traditional dish, offering a pleasant aroma and aesthetics. The magnificent combination of textures and flavors makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate rich and aromatic dishes of Eastern cuisine.

Pastrami from tongue is a true masterpiece of Romanian cuisine, combining the tenderness of veal tongue with a deep aroma of spices. Historically, pastrami originated in Eastern European and Balkan traditions of preparing meat delicacies, where salting and smoking served as a way to preserve products. This dish captivates with its rich flavor: sweet notes of honey and sugar balance the spiciness of coriander, pepper, and cinnamon, while smoking on alder chips adds a soft woody smoke. The finished tongue impresses with its silky texture and richness of taste, perfectly complementing a meat platter or becoming the star of a sandwich with mustard and rye bread. This exquisite treat is for true connoisseurs of gastronomic mastery.

Fish soup with hake is a light and aromatic dish that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. Its simplicity makes it accessible even for novice cooks. The history of fish soups is rooted in the traditions of coastal peoples, where fresh catch has always been a staple of nutrition. Hake, with its tender texture and mild flavor, pairs excellently with vegetables and grains, creating a harmony of tastes. The light spiciness of black pepper and bay leaves enhances the fish's natural freshness. This soup is perfect for family dinners that restore energy after a long day or as a cozy dish in cool weather. It is served hot, with pieces of hake, tender vegetables, and grains infused with the aroma of spicy seasonings.

A hearty beef filling is an upgrade from those same pancakes with minced meat from childhood. It is better to take a cut of beef with fat - shoulder and brisket are perfect, with them the filling will be juicy. The combination with pickles creates a beautiful flavor contrast, and the right spices - cumin and nutmeg - will fully reveal the taste of the meat.

Lard boiled in onion peel is an ancient recipe from European culinary traditions. Thanks to the peel, it acquires an appetizing golden hue and rich aroma. Spices and garlic enhance the flavor, combining spiciness with the tender texture of the lard. This dish is perfect for serving cold; it is often used as an appetizer for strong drinks or as a complement to rustic bread. After boiling and marinating, the lard becomes soft and juicy with a light spicy aftertaste. It stores well in the refrigerator, and its flavor develops further over time, becoming richer. This preparation makes lard not just a product but a true gastronomic delight that combines centuries-old traditions with the art of taste.

Aspic made from three types of meat is a traditional Russian dish with roots going back centuries. It was prepared in villages for winter to provide the family with nutritious and hearty food. The combination of pork knuckle, shanks, and rooster gives a rich, intense flavor and dense texture. Long boiling with onions, carrots, and spices fills the broth with aroma while garlic and bay leaves add piquant notes. Aspic is served chilled, often with horseradish or mustard to enhance the taste further. It is not just a dish but a symbol of home comfort and care that highlights the art of Russian cuisine. It is perfect for festive gatherings as well as everyday dinners, delighting with its deeply rich flavor and tender texture.