About
Hai!! My name is Natasha and I am the Ukrainian foodie. Vadim is my handsome man ❤️. We happily run this blog together full time (more on that below).
I come from a family of fantastic cooks and I’m here to share generations of Ukrainian-American recipes that are homey, fresh, healthy, family-friendly, sometimes bizarre and occasionally naughty. We also have unique and decadent desserts from Europe and around the world.
My family:
I used to be so shy I thought no one would marry me until my husband came along and swept me off my feet. I married (up) to my wonderful husband Vadim over 13 years ago. We are blessed with two littles. Every recipe is tasted and approved by each of us and is often critiqued by relatives and friends. We live in Idaho, “Ida-who?” Potatoes, people. Potatoes! Our family is actively involved in a Christian Slavic church. We strive to walk in love and live our lives by the word of God and life of Jesus.
My background:
We’re so thankful to be full time foodies. We’re living our dream because of you and I can’t thank you enough! I feel like God has worked all of my experiences together like a puzzle to bring me to this point. It took me a little bit to discover what God had in mind for me. I thank God for everything, without Whom I would be merely human (and that would suck).
Here’s the rundown:
*Starting as a teen, I worked for 7 years as a business intern
*I have a bachelors degree in Business (long story)
*I worked as a Realtor for 4 years during which I had an early mid-life crisis and cried alot (lets just say it wasn’t for me).
*I also have a Bachelors degree in Nursing (shorter story, but still long).
So, I’m a wife, mom, food blogger, entrepreneur, worship leader, and nurse. If I were a sandwich, I’d be a chicken bacon avocado on focaccia.
About Natasha’s Kitchen:
I started this food and family blog in 2009 as a way to share favorite recipes and events with family and friends. It has grown much larger than I could have imagined with well over 800 recipes and more than 3.2 Million hungry visitors per month.
My goal for this site is for people around the world to really discover and fall in love with Ukrainian and Russian cooking. I know its a big dream, but why would someone want a small dream?
This is a personal website and all of the recipes are tested and approved by my family. All of the photography is done by myself and I’m the one showing up in our videos. My husband edits the photos and videos (and he’s the videographer).
Much of the knowledge I share comes from my Mama, Mama-in-law and family members #majorprops. I am so thankful to have such amazing people in my life who generously share their rich knowledge of Russian/ Ukrainian Cooking.
The ingredients we use are simple and easily accessible; not overly hoity-toity. My motto: if you can read (a well-written, tested and trusted recipe), you can cook
How I got Started Cooking:
I wasn’t always excited about cooking. When I got married in 2003, it became a necessity – “must eat to live” and Mom wasn’t doing the cooking anymore. We had a lot of frozen meals (pizza, corn dogs; #ewe #ewe #ewe) – and we ate out too much in the first year of our marriage. I had a free summer (and decided I would improve my cooking skills so we could live and eat healthier. I dove into cookbook after cookbook and plundered my mom’s recipe books. I was at the library all the time bringing home piles of cookbooks; I was hooked! I even read my mother’s cooking textbook from her college days (Mom completed her culinary program when we moved to the US). I had discovered the joy of cooking. Within a few months, my husband and I each lost about 5 pounds just from cooking more at home! Now I can’t stop cooking and thinking about cooking and dreaming about cooking… I was born for this!
Culture and Background
My family moved from Ukraine to the US as refugees when I was 4 years old. I grew up eating authentic Ukrainian and Russian food. No doubt many of my recipes will have a Slavic origin and influence. I do love Russian/Ukrainian food and I hope the recipes on this site invoke the same love in you for the rich variety of foods of the Slavic culture.
My recipe collection continues to grow. I love to try new recipes and will share my favorites with you. I hope you enjoy this blog and find recipes that will become your family favorites as well.
Thank you for visiting my recipe blog, commenting, pinning and sharing the recipes with your peeps. And come back soon!
If you would like your recipe featured on this site, email it to me by clicking here (warning: spammers will get hit in the face with unripe avocados).
Please note: This blog includes only my own opinions and is not professional advice. It is not intended to be a diet plan, although I try to post healthy-ish recipes, please talk to your Dr. for medical or dietary advice. I am not liable if you eat too many piroshki.
Here you'll find classic Ukrainian food and other favorite recipes with easy step-by-step photos and videos. 
Hi Natasha: I made your stuffed bell peppers last night. They were wonderful and SO much healthier than the recipe I “used” to use. I was unsure I wanted to try the sauce (and almost wasn’t going to make it). I did make the sauce and it is wonderful. Very unique. TKS!!
You’re welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for the wonderful review!
Hi there. Wanted to tell you that I really enjoy your cooking and getting some great ideas from you. I also told my boss about you and your site and she said omg why didn’t you tell me sooner. She is going to try some of your great dinners,. Thank you.
That’s so great!! Thank you for sharing that with me!!
I’m very happy to find your blog, Natasha! We are also from Ukraine (many years ago) and I love to cook:) Found some very interesting recipes and will follow you here. Good luck!
I’m so happy you discovered our blog. Welcome! 🙂
Hello! I love everything about your story, your recipes, all of this, except…. I can barely read your recipes for all the ads and popups. The pop-up that asks if we want to subscribe WON’T go away, and is very much in the way. Because it’s so difficult, it kind of deters me from using your wonderful recipes. I don’t want to complain, but thought it was important to share that with you.
Hi Grace, I sure appreciate your feedback and our readers experience is a high priority so this feedback is helpful! I am not able to recreate not being able to close the subscribe box and clicking the “X” in the top right corner of the box is closing it for me. Can you share what device you are using and browser where clicking the “x” is not functioning? Thank you so much!
Hi Natasha, I just found your site here when looking for radish recipes! I am in Australia, in my 40’s and unfortunately living in a nursing home that serves awful old people’s food and I am looking at easy, healthy recipes that I can make. I have a fridge and microwave in my room . Oh my, looking at your salad recipes, I can’t wait to make some. I have German and Estonian heritage so I love European hints in food 😊. I look forward to reading more of your recipes.
I’m so happy you discovered out recipes!! I too hope you get to try that soon!!
Hey Natasha! 😃 I was just looking for the Red Borscht II recipe and it’s gone!! Can you please post it up again or at least send me the recipe individually, thank you!! It was the only recipe I used for res borscht😭
Hi Diana, the Borscht recipe that I have posted it the improved version of the older one, but here is the original print-friendly view.
You just inspired me. I can’t believe it took me this long to read more “about you” on your site. I am also Realtor (recently) and I still think it may not be for me. I also love to cook, (kirsyskitchen) and I have been struggling trying to find out what I am meant to be here for. My biggest motivation is happiness is definitely dancing. Maybe I could incorporate a cooking/dancing business…lol. Love your recipes and a lot of what I do, is from your site. Thanks again for sharing and may God continue to bless you and your family!!!
Seriously all smiles after reading this Kirsys!! Thank you for sharing this with me!! 🙂
Greetings from O.H.I.O …. I would like to use your cheesy chicken fritters recipe as an appetizer. Would it work to make them smaller (a few days prior to my party) and freeze them? If so, should I thaw before baking — or bake before thawing and just microwave quickly before serving? Thanks so much.
Hi Rebecca! I think it would be best if these were baked after the freezer however I find it’s best to bake until it is just hot and not cooking again since recooking chicken can make it tough. I haven’t experimented with freezing and then baking but some of our readers have great results in doing so.
Hi Natasha love your blog! Just stumbled across it looking for a specific Ukrainian blueberry cake. It’s possible that your blueberry lemon cake might be it.My Moms grandmother was from Lviv Ukraine, (pre ww2)and my mom always talks about this amazing blueberry cake she would make that was filled with blueberries. Apparently it made almost a filling with so many fresh berries. I might try the recipe like that.
That’s so great!! I hope you get to try our recipe soon! Also, Welcome to our blog! I’m so happy you discovered it!
I love your website! I am also a christian, nurse and when I came to the US, I started cooking more at home to stay healthy!
Your recipes are delicious and whenever I want to cook something new, I first check your website! Congrats!!
I’m so inspired reading this. Thank you Larissa! I’m so happy you discovered our blog!
hi im so glad i found this delicious website it has seriously made my day!😉
Awww that’s the best! Thank you so much for sharing that with me :). I’m all smiles! Welcome to our blog!
Love your vibe of cooking! Keep it up💖 beautiful family!
You’re so nice! Thank you Geena!
Hi Natasha! I love watching your videos and ideas. I made your Instant Pot recipe for Beef Plov for my husband and loved it! Would love to see more ideas for the IP! Thank you so much and get them coming! 🙂 Also loved all the avocado salads this summer! Awesome!!
I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing your great feedback!
Hi Natasha,
First thing when I look for a recipe is in your kitchen. Well done and keep the good recipes coming!
You always give me a good vibe ♥️
You’re so nice! Thank you Oana!
Natasha’s recipes are easy to follow, taste wonderful & her video are always fun to watch!
You’re so nice! Thank you!
Absolutely love all recipes I’ve tried so far. I appreciate the simplicity of the recipe and the out of this world taste.
Thank you!
Thank you for this amazing feedback!
Natasha, I have only recently started cooking and so appreciate your delicious and easy-to-follow recipes. As a physician and a mother, quick and simple is essential! I was introduced to your blog by my dad (who is perhaps your BIGGEST fan!) who is a phenomenal cook and now uses your recipes regularly.
Thank you from our family to yours. Keep up the great work!
The Cheers and Cook Families
Hi Erin! Thank you so much for sharing this with me! I love that your dad introduced you to our blog! Welcome! We are happy to have you!!
I’ve been following you on Facebook for some time and absolutely love your videos! I just now read your background and I am so happy that we are blessed to have you and your family in this country. I love your recipes and your presentation. I’m a 62 year old grandma who has been cooking and baking since I was 11 years old and I love trying variations or new recipes, especially with some ethnic flavor! Keep up the good work and God bless you and your family!
I’m so inspired reading your review. Thank you Beth! I appreciate you taking time to write this thoughtful message our way.
I really enjoy your site and recipes. I notice you use a Dutch oven a lot. I do not have one as I’m a tiny woman and I find them way too heavy for me to manage. Can you suggest an alternative? e.g. for your beef soup or lamb stew recipes.
Thanks.
A heavy bottom pot will do. Just make sure to watch carefully when braising especially since items tend to burn quicker when not in a heavy bottom pot
I love a good chicken salad sandwich! I would love to see a recipe of one from you! I would love the video too! One of my favorites was from Chick-Fil-A but, they stopped selling it. 🙁 You have the best recipes and I love trying to recreate them!
Hi Courtney! We have so many different salads to choose from! I recommend following this link here for a few of our favorites
Thank you!
You’re welcome!
I just discovered your website through the Facebook videos, love them. I’m retired so have time to play in the kitchen, even though people think I’m a good cook, And i cook a lot from scratch, I still have a lot to learn in the kitchen (and life) lol. I’m looking forward to making your recipes, they look yummy. My first will be the apple cake.
So excited to see you are a Christian and give God all the glory to your success.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback Susan! I am so happy you have discovered our blog! Welcome!!
Your site is now my go to for dinners. I’ve made your plov and the men loved it…now making your one sheet pan chicken. Thanks for keeping it real.
You’re so welcome, Jennifer!! I’m so happy to hear you are enjoying our recipes!
Where in Ukraine is your family from?
Hi Ksenia, we are from Krivoy Rog
Is it Kryvyj Rih
In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Ukraine?
Yes 😀
Omg. thank you for your sharing you sound like me. I never knew what i’m good at when it comes to school, then I decided Business, since my family is also in Real Estate.
I also to got married last year. Never knew how to cook. Kinda regret not learning while living with my mom for all these years. She a great chinese food cooker. She knows all the recipe. But now my cooking skill kinda better but still need a little bit improving. Some times I forget the recipe so I have to look it up on my phone lol short term memory no good lol
It’ll be nice to learn how to cook all food without a recipe. It gets tiring reading them lol
I guess God has planned that you’re a food blogger 🙂
Just keep trying and with practice you’ll be amazing! Thanks for sharing this with me, Judy!
Hi Natasha
Love your recipes. Do you use US measuring standards in your recipes? (E.g. Cups, tablespoons) It can be a bit tricky working out the equivalent for Australian equipment and there are a lot of websites giving a lot of different figures. Would love it if you could recommend a site or post this information on your site. Thanks!
Hi Rita! We are currently working on adding metric measurements to all of our recipes but it is taking some time as we have to add them one at a time. Thank you so much for being patient! In the meantime, check out our post on measuring which should help
I love love love the shrimp alfredo recipe! I am so not a big cooker, but since stumbling upon your youtube videos, I’ve been inclined to cook. 🙂 Do you have a recipe for crab cakes?
Welcome to our blog Tasha! We have these amazing shrimp cakes Some of our readers have replaced shrimp for crab and loved it! Enjoy!
Love watching you. One day you were opening a can of beans or tomatoes with this can opener with long handle…looked so easy to use, can you tell me what brand it is??
Thanks!!
Thank you Diane! We use this can opener here.
So many things look so delicous and very tasty and I will be trying quite a few of them. Thanks Do you have the recipe for a russian cherry cake I believe it is wonderful and is light and has cream I think
Hi Chris! I recommend check out cherry archives here. I hope this helps!
I love your recipes. Do you have a cookbook? I am old school and still love to sit and look through cookbooks to find what I want to try.
We are working on one! Stay tuned!
Hi Natasha, I’ve just watched your video for the salmon cob salad which looks amazing! For the dressing what would you recommend instead of using cilantro?
Hi Chele, you could use chopped chives instead and it will still taste great.
Interesting recipe but can’t use do to the fact printing the whole recipe would be prohibitive, sorry.
Gus, We have a printer friendly version at the bottom of each post 🙂
Hi Natasha,
I made your berry danish. My berries were bleeding onto the cream cheese filling. Do you know how I can prevent this from happening?
Hi Nancy! We’re the berries dry? not wet placing them?
Hi Natasha, I was following your recipes on Facebook. I wanted to cook salmon on Sunay and found your recipe on google. You have a new subscriber from England. Like you said your recipes are family friendly and the ingredients are easy to find. Thank you and Good luck xx
Thank you so much for subscribing, Hayrie! Welcome!
Hello Natasha.
I just have to say how wonderful I think your videos are. They are executed and edited brilliantly and the way you speed up the prep and cooking, is just perfect. I also watch Food Wishes and Laura in the Kitchen and you are now my favourite YT chef (sorry Laura!!!). Thank you and I hope you keep the videos coming.
PS You’re adorable!
You’re so nice! Thank you for this amazing feedback, Marc!
Hi Natasha!
Love your website…LOVE your recipes…I am a Celiac who prefers to eat naturally gluten free.
Your Nutella almond cake is just that!…I have a question though…can I bake the base layers several days in advance….keep them airtight….and then assemble 24 hours prior to enjoying?
I think I can…I just want to defer to your expertise!
Thank you
Hi Mary, you can make the layers a couple days in advance but the cake really does need to soften overnight so it is a make-ahead cake 🙂
hi Natasha, i would like to know if i can double your peach preserve recipe. thank you
Hi there, Lynn. I don’t see why not as long as you have a large enough container! Enjoy!
Hi. Natasha .
I love all the recipes I’ve tried every recipe from your site and I’m a big fan of your blog. Always excited to see a new post!
Thank you… 😉
My pleasure Ivanna! I’m happy to hear you are enjoying our recipes!
Hi Natasha! I love your 4 ingredient sponge cake! I am going to make it as the base for a candy island cake for my school’s art project.May i ask if the cake will last when not refrigerated for around 4 hours?Thank you so much❤
It should hold up fine but try to keep it refrigerated up until you are ready to serve or have it out.
Thank you so much !
My pleasure!
Hi Natasha,
I love your recipes. If I don’t make the cheesy chicking fritters often there is a riot in my home and frankly, I could just take a bath in the garlic lemon mayo.
I love cooking and take great pride in giving my family healthy homemade food. I’ve got two kids and want to make sure that they learn how fun food can be.
I’ve been wanting to do something similar with my cooking and start a blog to share my favorite recipes but mostly my love of food and cooking. What would you recommend to someone who wants to be like you when they grow up? 🙂 I just figured out I will not have lived my life fully if I don’t cook for a living. Any insights on how to get started the right way would be appreciated. thanks!
Hi Marie! Thank you for reaching out! That is a great question! We actually have an awesome blog resource post here. I hope this helps.
Hi Natasha,
I have truly enjoyed making your recipes and look forward to many more. I am sure your family loves dinner time and the yumminess you make for them.
I see numerous recipes that specify how garlic should be prepared; minced, crushed etc…does it really matter if I mince garlic if the recipe calls for crushed garlic? I noticed a dish of yours, I believe it was a chicken and rice dish. You sliced a whole garlic bulb in half and pushed it into the dish. If I decided to press the garlic, would it make the dish not as yummy?
Sorry, I am garlic conflicted 🙂
Thank you,
Aaron
Hi Aaron, I love how you put that “garlic conflicted” 🙂 Placing in the whole garlic head into the plov allows the flavor to infuse into the rice without overwhelming it and you can enjoy the cloves in the rice if you want more of a garlic punch – those cloves pop right out of their shells when squeezed and they have a sweet roasted flavor to them. If garlic is being cooked (sauteed, roasted, etc), it’s nice to minced, otherwise it can get too juicy and can cause splatter and sticking to the pan – if you’re cooking longer than a minute, sometimes pressed garlic and become bitter tasting. It really just depends on the texture you are going for and the cooking method. I hope all of that makes sense, but there is usually some reasoning to using minced versus pressed and I suggest following what the recipe calls for , for best results :). Oh also, crushed garlic – sometimes I crush garlic to get the flavor out into a stock or other recipe where I want to remove the garlic clove after it infuses it’s flavor and discard it.
Awesome, thank you 🙂
You’re welcome, Aaron!
Hi Natasha:
I love your recipes and have made several of them.
My name is Deanna and I am of Ukrainian descent. I was also brought up on Ukrainian/Russian food. However, by the time I really got interested in learning to cook, my mom had passed away when I was 13. My father was not much of a cook so I took over the cooking duties. I learned a lot on my own and from recipes from my aunts. The one thing I really miss is the bread my mom made at Christmas time. I would love to have a recipe to make it for my family. If you know what this could be I would really appreciate the recipe. I remember it had lots of dried fruits in it.
Hi Deanna! Thank you so much for sharing this with me. I’m so happy you had your aunts to help with your recipes. Could it possible be something like this loaf?
Missing your great recipes and God given smile and personality but understand you have a lot to do sence moving into your new house. God bless, hope you and family are doing well. ——In Gods grace Danny
Hi Danny! Thank you for that! We are still posting twice a week! The blog had all of our latest recipe! Thank you!
Hi natasha I love love love your sponge cake. Could you please make a chocolate spong cake and share with us…
Thanks for the great idea, Sigma!
I am intrigued. You are so cute. I lime your site. Cant wait to try your recipes. From one Uki to another…Дякую!
You’re so welcome, Irene!
thank you for your recipe of the ptichye moloko. i am adopted from Russia and am doing a presentation on Russian food and culture. I am excited to try it out and share it with my American friends and family.
You’re so welcome, Natasha! (Hey, great name!). I’m so honored you will be sharing our recipe to represent the Russian culture. I love that!
Hi Natasha and family! just happened across your web site of recipes… Just printed out a few (15 to be exact; LOL) Can’t wait to try them all!
Thanks,Cathy
THat’s so awesome! You just made my day! Enjoy!
Hi Natasha… I just discovered you yesterday while browsing You Tube. You were doing the Chicken Gloria recipe and it sounded and looked so good. I will be trying it soon. And I will also be following you to see what other yummy recipes you have.
Hi Sue! I’m so happy you discovered our blog! Welcome! I look forward to hearing how you like the Chicken Gloria!
I love your recipies. They are so easy, colourful and delicious!
Thank you for sharing these lovely foodies, your beautiful family and Christianity.
Lots of love from South Africa
Wow! I’m so happy you discovered our blog all the way in South Africa!! Thank you so much, Sunette! 🙂
Hello Natasha!!
I am an Indian living in Budapest.
I just saw your recipes and they are amazing. I am a dietitian and definitely gonna recommend your channel.
Lots of Love and good wishes.
Wow! Thank you Suzi! That is so nice of you! Welcome to our blog!
Hi, Natasha! My name is also Natasha and I’m also from Ukraine 🙂 I’ve just discovered your blog on Yummly while looking for an apple pie. Browsing trough your recipes, I’ve discovered a lot of similarities with my own recipes. Thank you for bringing our wonderful and tasty recipes to more and more American readers and tasters 🙂
Hey Natasha! Nice name 😉 . I’m so happy you discovered our blog! We are so happy to share our recipes and culture with our readers! 🙂 Welcome to the blog!
Natasha I love your recipes . Even my family love the meals. And they are easy to cook , bc you show how easy it is. Thank you for sharing this to us.
You’re so welcome, Susanne! I’m so happy you enjoyed that
I am so thrilled that I found this site–your recipes look so yummy! I can’t wait to start trying them!! Do you deliver? Just kidding!!
Hi Patty! This just made my day! I’m so happy you discovered our blog! Welcome!
I’m a Brazilian living in the US. I love cooking as a hobby, and your recipes are simply amazing! Yours are the first ones try before checking other cooking blogs or sites. Thanks for sharing your talents with the us!
Aw thanks again Lina. You’re so sweet!
I’m a Brazilian living in the US. I love cooking as a hobby, and your recipes are simply amazing! Yours are the first ones try before checking other cooking blogs or sites. Thanks for sharing your talents with the us!
Hi Lina! this made my day! Thank you for the amazing feedback! I’m so happy to hear that. 🙂
Hi!
Normally when its dinner time I pull out my expert culinary skills and make a mean bowl of cereal. Today however, I learned how to spatchcock a chicken and it was amazing. My wife was so happy with the meal and we started picking other recipes on your site to try. Thanks for your hard work and God bless.
That’s so great, Dave! I love that you went from cereal to spatchcock and survived just fine 😉 Your wife must’ve been thrilled! Thank you for sharing your feedback with us! God bless!
Thank you. I am British and my wife Olga is Russian. I am making Kvass for her. We live near San Francisco,
Hi Bruce! I’m so happy you discovered our blog! Enjoy the Kvas!
WAS WONDERING INSTEAD OF SHRIMP CAN I USE SCALLOPS ALERGIC TO SHRIMP BUT LOOKS SO GD FRIED
Hi Helen! I would love to answer that. Which recipe are you referring to? I received this comment on my “about” page thread 🙂
Keep up the great work !!
Thank you William!
Hi Natasha, I too am half Ukrainian Half Spanish withand 100% Christian hehe :0)….Love all your healthy recipes. The avocado tuna salad is the #1 favorite in our home. We are currently working on making Piroshki’s for the first time! Thank you for sharing.
You’re so welcome, Alexis! I’m so happy you discovered our blog!
Hello from Singapore ! Hi Natasha. I’m Norwati. Your avocado and chicken salad was the first recipe I saw on fb and it was also the first time I decided to try avocadoes and boy I’m hooked. I have 4 kids all with different preferences when it comes to food. However when I cooked something from you they all loved it. Thank you for the recipes.
That’s so great! Thank you so much for sharing that with me!
Hi Natasha…..I’m always looking for one of your videos on Facebook…..I haven’t tried any of your recipies yet but have so many saved to my facebook page. I didn’t know you had a blog until a few minutes ago! Haha. I was looking for a recipie and thought I’d type in your name and here you are! I love it!
Hi Esther! I’m so happy you discovered our blog! Welcome! I hope you get to try some of them soon!
Natasha, I have enjoyed so many of your recipes. Are you considering writing a cookbook? If so, I want to be first in line.
Hi Kathy! I’m so happy you enjoyed them! Yes! Stay tuned!
Just came across your recipes, delicious. Videos well put together, clear. Wonderful little family. But even happier to know that you know Jesus. Keep up the good cooking
Thank you for watching Brycee! I’m so happy you discovered our blog!
Hi Natasha and family, just found your blog and already made 2 dishes today, tuna avocado cucumber salad and tzatziki sauce with chicken. I’ll be looking forward to more things to try, love your cooking style and faith : ) Danette
Thank you so much for following the blog and trying our recipe! I love that you have tried so many!
You are without doubt one of the most beautiful people I have ever seen.And it’s not just an external thing; your beauty radiates from within and it shows in your smile, your wit and your absolute love of what you do. I have tried four of your recipes thus far and they have all been received with joy and admiration—so thank you for that. Whenever I log onto Facebook, it is with anticipation of seeing another of your videos. Your husband is unbelievably lucky and I feel such intense joy reading about your happy family. Keep on keeping on!!
Wow! Thank you for your amazing feedback and kind words. I appreciate you taking your time to leave such a thoughtful comment. I’m so happy these recipes have worked out for you!
Just made the Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine and my husband said “better than any he has ever eaten, even in restaurants. Thanks so much.
Wow! That’s a great compliment! Thank you, Sandra!
Looking for advise on whether I can pre prepare shrimp cakes the day before?
Hi Carol! You definitely can make them ahead! Quick Tip: Our readers have reported reheating them in the oven is much better than the microwave.
Wow! Just saw your shrimp salsa on Facebook and took the time to look at your site as well. Congratulations on making it nine years and on a beautiful family anchored by Christ. Wishing you guys continued success. Paul
Thank you so much Paul! I appreciate you taking your time with this thoughtful comment!
Hi, Natasha–My husband has been asking me to make a dish that his Ukrainian grandmother used to make. He’s not even sure of the name of it–he says it’s like a piroshky and he calls it “Varanix,” or “Varenke”, which I don’t think is correct. He said it’s a dough that’s stuffed with cabbage and/or a soft cheese like cottage cheese. He seems to remember his grandmother baking it in the oven, in milk. Then he says maybe it was cooked on top of the stove? Any idea what it is he wants me to make? Any answer/suggestion would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Josie, If they are baked, it is probably one of our baked piroshki recipes.
When I lived in Russia in 1994, they had a dish called vareneke. They are dunplings that are often a little larger than what are called piroshki, (it is hard for me to even write them in the names in English and this alphabet) and filled with either mashed potatoes with dill, cabbage sauteed with onion (lots of oil), or tvorog, which is a soft farmer’s cheese, smoother than ricotta, with honey added and often served with jam. I made vareneke in the home of several Russians in the far east of Siberia (Khabarovsk). After you prepared After you filled and formed them, they were placed on large baking sheets, and often put outside in the cold to be frozen. Then they were always boiled and reheated by sauteeing. The sweet ones, with tvorog, were sometimes briefly simmered in a sweet milky sauce.
The ones with meat were smaller and called pielmeni.
Happy memories for sure…. even of electricity outages, no hot water in summer, city-wide bread, butter, sugar, and flour shortages. But generous, hospitable people.
Why are the instructions deleted from so many of your recipies? The ones I can get I love.
Hi Jane, the instructions are on every recipe. If you come across something that seems missing, please let me know which recipe since that is definitely not normal for instructions to be deleted. Thanks!
Do you have a way I can message or email you?
Hi Judy, comments here are usually the best way, but my direct email is: natasha @ natashaskitchen.com (no spaces) 🙂
Thank you so very much for your recipes! My husband grew up eating his grandmother’s Polish food and I have been searching for authentic dishes to make for my husband.
Welcome to my blog and I hope you love everything you try!
I have made a Lot of your recipes and enjoyed them all. Thanks so much
Thank you so much Toni! I’m so glad to hear that 🙂
Hi Natasha,
Do you have a recipe for Ukrainian beet leaf buns?
Hi Brenda. At this time I do not. I would love to know more about it
Hi Natasha! Your recipes as well as methods for preparation look delicious, and I will be trying a few soon. My grandmother was from the Ukraine. I am Lithuanian. There are many similar dishes. Connie (3 Aug), below, seems to be describing piroshki, no? There is a bakery at Pike Street Market in Seattle named “Piroshky Piroshky” which prepares many different varieties.
Hi Milda! It is so nice to meet you and welcome to my blog! 🙂
I live in Canada and want to make Chicken Madeira, but can’t find the wine – if I google it says substitute sherry or a few other dry drinks – your recipe says a “sweet white wine” so I’m confused. Could you help me pick a substitute?
Hi Lois. I’m sorry you are having trouble finding it! We purchased ours at a local liquor story, I would recommend looking there if your grocery store doesn’t carry it. If you are looking for a different wine, Marsala is a good option. If you are looking to make it wine-free, you could just use more broth but the flavor profile wouldn’t be quite the same. The madeira wine gives it a unique, sweet flavor profile. One of our readers used “Portuguese white – Vinho Verde” and loved it. I should add that some of our readers reported that there can be redder varieties depending on the types of grapes used. Maybe someone else has some insight into this? I definitely don’t claim to be a wine connoisseur.
Could you use a Sweet Red Muscadine wine?
Hi Tami, which recipe are you referencing?
Love your recipes
Thank you El! I’m so happy you enjoy them!
Hi, Natasha! I am glad to “see” you 🙂
🙂 I’m glad you can see us here
Hi Natasha, the Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is really superb. Unfortunately. Now I will eat waaaaaaay to much of these delicacies and gain tons of weight. I’m an engineer…please do an extremely minor correction to chicken parmesan recipe.
Approximately 1/2 way down in the section with detailed text for the recipe, the calories are listed as 535 kcal. That’s 535,000 cal. I am certain it is actually 535 cal…without the “k”. Here’s a copy of the section:
Author: Natasha of NatashasKitchen.com
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $7-$12
Calories: 535 kcal
Servings: 4 people
In the nutrition label near the bottom calories are listed as 535 cal…I’ll bet it is the right value.
Thank You for your recipes!…I am viewing more of them and may purchase one of the Staub Braiser pans from Amazon that you recommended. I assume you will get some commission for such a purchase. How do I do it so you get commission, if this is a possibility?
Hi Dales, thank you for pointing that out! That formatting is part of the print-friendly program that I use and I’m not sure if it is changeable but I will look into it! We do earn a small commission when someone clicks on a link to Amazon from our blog (such as the shop tab or from a link within a post), but your price is never changed for the product, we just get a small commission from Amazon for using an affiliate link on our blog. That’s so nice of you to ask! 🙂
Hi Natasha! I have a recipe request – since there is still a bit of summer left, can you do a video of you making a cake that looks like a swimming pool? I would like to see that and I think it is perfect for summer. 🏊♀️
Hi Z! That sounds like a fun project, although I’m not sure if I’ll have time to film and post that kind of very summery recipe 🙂 We have our filming done a few weeks out currently.
Hi Natasha, I want to make my Slavac grandmothers pierogi for a family dinner. When we lived in Portland, OR there were many eastern European grocery stores to find ingredients for her recipes. Now we live in Bend, Or and there is nothing like that here. She always made some potato and cheese pierogi and some with lekvar. Found some on Amazon. Have you ever used Solo brand?
Hi Sherry, I am not familiar with that brand so I’m not able to recommend it one way or the other. Amazon is pretty good with ratings and reviews though – I would use that as a gauge.
Hello dear, I am 70 years old and of Polish descent. I also love cooking and your recipes give me more ideas. I see you have two beautiful children. Do you have recipes for children, who are fussy eaters? Seems kids want to live on pizza, french fries and chicken nuggets. I would like to see more of a variety, since I cook for my grandchildren.
Hi Susan! Yes kiddos tend to be picky! In fact I recently sent out a newsletter about picky eaters! We do have several recipes that readers have responded to their picky kids loving! You can try these here Kids love this soup These fritters are always a hit! I would recommend searching the blog for “kids” or “picky eaters” and that should narrow the search down. Let me know if I can offer any other suggestions Susan 🙂
I forgot to add… I made them gluten free by using ground flax… I have an allergy to wheat.
Cynthia! That is impressive! We often have readers looking for gluten free and healthier options! I’m sure they will find this useful! Thank you!
Hi Natasha! Love your blog, your story & your recipes!
My 1st recipe chosen we’re the salmon patties! I loved the idea of using fresh salmon I stead of canned and they are phenominal.
I made my own “tartar sauce” using Greek yogurt, a little mayo, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder & Worcestershire sauce. At the last minute I added dill. I think it could have used some fresh lemon juice but they are amazing & I am sharing the recipe & you blog link.
One of my friends if from Ukraine, her grandmother lives in Boston. Looking forward to trying some of your recipes, and one day surprise her!
Thank you!!!
That’s so great Cynthia! Thank you for sharing your version with us! I’m so happy you discovered our blog! I hope you found a few favorites on here!
LOVE – LOVE – LOVE your recipes! Would like to see more fish recipes please.
Thank you Emily! We do love our fish around here!
Prevet Natasha!
This is going to be so random, but did Vadim work at Verizon off of Eagle road? If so I used to always go to him for all my service.
Why yes he did! That’s funny 🙂
Hello Natasha!
We have recently (less than one week!) welcomed an exchange student from Ukraine into our home! I found your site while searching for a recipe for Kielbasa and potatoes (which he requested.) I will be returning often to find dishes that will help him feel at home here in the U.S.
That’s so great Lux! I’m happy you discovered our blog!
Beautiful family – beautiful and delicious food. What else can a person wish for.
Thank you for sharing with us your talent.
Love,
Neb
It is our pleasure! We enjoyed sharing our favorite recipes with our readers!
I cannot print this why not Please help
Hi Betty! The print friendly recipe is at the bottom of each post. Once you scroll there, click on the print icon in that recipe card which will open a print screen, then you would need to click file —> print. I hope that helps! If not, please let me know exactly what steps you are taking and where you are navigating to print our recipes.
Natasha I grew up in Poland and Germany. I’ve enjoyed watching your blog and trying some of your recipes…..
Hi Brigitte! I’m happy you discovered our blog and so glad you’re enjoying our recipes! Welcome!
Can I make this in a air fryer? If so at what temperature and for how long.
Hi Donna! Which recipe are you referring to? I received this comment on my About link 🙂
hola natasha , I want to know whwre here on your page if I can buy some books thanks !
We don’t have any yet! We are working on something special for the future however!
These recipes look delicious. My mom used to make baked perogies. They were similar to boiled ones except she used yeast. She covered them with garlic and lard and baked them. She had to punch the dough down a couple of times and keep it warm to let it rise. She died many years ago. I do not have her recipe. It was like eating mini loaves of garlic bread filled with potatoes and farmers cheese. Let me know if you ever made these. Thanks. You have a personality that draws people to your site. It is Christ’s love shininh through you . Connie
Thank you so much for your sweet comments Connie! What you described sounds amazing! I don’t think I have tried anything exactly like that but would love to learn more about it!
You all nice
I’m so glad that you share your faith along with your excellent recipes, and I enjoy your videos!
Thank you so much Martha! I’m so happy you found our blog! 🙂
Hi to you and your beautiful family!
I am new to your blog. I watched your chicken pesto rolls in facebook shared by a friend so thanks to her because I love your recipes. Simple, healthy, and great pictures by the way!! I have been in so many blogs but yours is the best. Your picture with all the ingredients at once (for photographic memory people is great), then a short video (if you know how to cook that is all you need) and the recipe to share or put it in my book of recipes. See you make everybody happy! Thank you for that!
Hi Claudia, your encouraging comment means so much to me! Thank you!! 🙂
I love your blog and your dishes, they are simple and delish. I was born in Budapest Hungary and miss my mom’s incredible cooking. I wish I could cook some of her favorites. You have a lovely family. Take care
Thank you Beatrix! You’re so nice! I’m happy you discovered our blog!
Natasha,
My grandparents were from Russia and the Ukraine so I grew up on family recipes from the region. Love your site. I made the Blueberry and Lemon cake yesterday it was fantastic!
I’m so happy you discovered out blog, Mary! Welcome!
I really like all your recipes A Lot ! I have noticed and have commented someplace else that for a Gal with Ukrainian roots you sure are not shy about using Jalapeño Peppers and cilantro on some of your recipes how did THAT come about? Also being I Ornamental Horticulture I was really excited on your video about all the plants that where used in your new home Congratulations When I lived in Boise for about 9 Years I did not see the emphasis placed on plant material like I’m used to in San Diego maybe one of these days do a video on what your Landscape looks like Blessings to you and your Family
Hi Joe! I’m not sure how it came about but my husband just developed a deep love for spicy foods and cilantro. 🙂 I am hoping to post something with the landscape once it’s had a chance to become established somewhat 🙂
I’ve been following you on Facebook for a while and came across you by chance. Love the recipes and thought it was kind of good that your name is the same as my daughter. Now that I realise more about your background I realise why I like you so much. Wishing you all the best and keep the interesting recipes coming. More best wishes from your Australian fan!
Thank you so much David! I’m so happy you discovered our blog! Welcome!
Hi Natasha. My name is Natasha too. I live in California. Discover your blog few weeks ago. My kids are extremely picky eaters. I tried some of your recipes and my kids loved them !!!!!! Thank you very much. You have a very beautiful family.
We share a great name don’t we? That’s so great! I’m so happy you discovered out blog!
Hello dear Natasha and your beautiful family!
My name is Nara-I am mongolian, live in Chicago, IL and HAVE AN UKRAINIAN HUSBAND!
I started following your blog since 7-8 yrs ago and it really helped me to keep me and my family happy throughout all these years!Love every single your recipes-I tried many of them-especially Spartak cake-my family favorite cake now!
Love your family and wish you JOY and HAPPINESS!
Aww you’re so nice! Thank you for following our blog all these years! I’m all smiles!
I feel so privileged to have come across such a lovely blog. I have no, absolutely NO, idea about Ukrainian/russian cooking. But I’m very eager to learn more about them. As you go by your recipes, could you point out any hints of Ukrainian and Russian cooking for fools like me? I tried your Parmesan stuffed chicken it was great. I modified it by using cheddar, cream cheese mozerella, mushrooms and hint herbs: Italian seasonings, thyme, oregano . I covered it with flour, egg and crumbs as usual . It turned out to be really great. I later replaced the mushrooms with jalapenos and that was a great idea too
Hi Baila! I’m so happy you discovered our blog and willing to give our recipes a try! We try to add photos with all of our recipes to help with the process. If you have any recipe specific questions please let me know!
Just want to say “Hello” from Brisbane, Australia!
It was so surprising to meet with your blog in the worldwide Internet’s jungle, Natasha!
Immediately going to cook Lamb stew now!
Hi Victoria! I’m so happy you found our blog and all the way in Australia! Welcome!
Love your Blueberry lemon cake. I made it and took it to work. The nurses I work with had it gone in 30 mins. This one is a keeper
That’s so great Deborah! Thank you for sharing that with me! 🙂
Hi from Germany. Just found your page and happy to be a part. I am german, ex hubby is Scottish, now hubby English with Irish background. I worked in Texas back in 79, now we live at the North Sea Coast of Germany. Would love to hear from you. A good young friend of mine is from Kasachstan. Do you still speak Russian? Regards Heike
Hi Heike, welcome to my blog! I do speak some Russian and Ukrainian. I hope you love everything you try from our blog 🙂
i was going to ask about a cook book that would be awesome. love your recipes and they are very easy to follow. i am Maggie from miami florida.best of luck with your cookbook hope is soon so i can purchase.
You are so nice Maggie! Thank you! We will keep our readers posted!
Hi, Natasha! I love watching you cook and your recipes are the best!! Do you know is you will be coming out with a print cookbook? I have been saving most of the recipes in a facebook file, but I’m old fashioned and love the written page!! Thank you, Angela
Hi Angela! Thank you for the compliment! I’m beginning to create my first cookbook this year, stay tuned!
Hello, Natasha. I saw your Easy Allmond Cake recipe on Facebook. A friend had shared it. (It looks SO yummy and I can’t wait to try it!) So I decided to visit your blog and really enjoyed reading about you and your family. I myself am from Ukrainian heritage. All four of my grandparents immigrated to the US from Ukraine in the early 1900s. My parents were the first generation born in the US. I can’t wait to further explore your blog and recipes! My mother made many Ukrainian foods that I have recipes for. I attend a Slavic church picnic every year to also enjoy many of the foods! Thank you!
I’m so happy you discovered our blog Susan! Welcome! Thank you for sharing that with me! 🙂
I’ve enjoyed watching your blog and trying some of your recipes. So happy to see this background information on you and your family. I knew there was something special about you! Thank you and Blessings to you!
You’re so sweet 🙂 Thank you Betsy!! Blessings to you as well!
Hi Natasha, I too have Ukrainian heritage and my family loves our “specialty” recipes. Do you ever do any Whole30 recipes? Thanks in advance and we are big fans of Natasha’s Kitchen!!
Best,
Rob
Hi Rob, we do have recipes that would work in the whole 30 diet but they are not categorized in one specific category that way. I will keep that in mind in the future so they are easier to search. I’m so glad you enjoy our recipes 🙂
Finally someone willing to teach Slavic cooking! Everyone I talk to are all hush hush and seeing all these recipes.. especially piroshky… Makes me so happy.
I’m so happy you discovered our blog, Laura!! Welcome!
I made the Shrimp and Avocado salad today, also the marinated Cherry tomatoes. Both were AWESOME !!! My daughter Julie loved both. 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing that with me :). That’s just awesome!!
Absolutely LOVE your recipes, your instructional videos and YOU!!!
Have made several of your recipes, and they never disappoint.
Your family is awesome and I will continue to watch and share you with my friends 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful feedback! I’m so happy you discovered our blog!
Greeting from Volodymyr-Volynskyy, Volyn region, Ukraine. It’s very interesting and useful site, especially recipe of Borsch and Vareniki.
I’m so happy you discovered out blog! Welcome! You can find Borscht here and Vareniki Here , here and here! Enjoy!
Wanting to make lemon blueberry cake but measurements are in cups. Your cup measurements are different to ours. Do you have cup measurements ie weights somewhere please.
Hi Dee, If you scroll down to the printable copy you can select the Metric version vs US Customary measurements. Simply click Metric and it will change the measurements for you. You may find this measuring guide useful as well. I hope this helps.
You are so stinking cute. I love watching your videos, and that we live in the same state!
You’re so nice! Thank you, Ashlee!
the cream cheese for the dasnish is it to be put into the danish before it goes into the oven or is it to go in after danish is cooked? i lookede and it doesnt say anywhere
Hi Marilyn, add the cream cheese to the danish before it is cooked. If you are referring to this danish, it also helps to watch the video tutorial. I hope you love the recipe!
Natasha, you are a beautiful person inside and out and I look forward to your recipes… I have made a couple of them and have never been disappointed. Keep up the amazing work !
Thank you Kelly! I appreciate the thoughtful comment!
Really ur amazing…i am following u here in instgram and on u tube.not only ur food is great and nice…but ur soul even…love ur food&the way ur presenting the food with love…thanx for everthing💕
Thank for so much for your sweet comment! You’re so nice!
Hi Natasha,
I’m so glad I came across your blog. A couple of generations ago, my family on both sides immigrated from Russia. Unfortunately, it seems that the influence of Russian cooking did not get passed down to the current generation.
I’m looking forward to trying out some recipes on your blog.
Regards…
Hi Judy! I hope this blog and my recipes allow you to make that connection with your roots! I know how important that can be. I’m so happy you discovered our blog! Welcome!
Natasha, Sooooo glad I found you on Face Book!!!! You have some awesome recipies…I love cooking and am always looking for new and “exciting” recipies…yes….I get excited about food!!!!! Been cooking for many, many years and am always wanting to try new ideas in the kitchen!!! Keep up the good work…
Thank you so much! I’m so happy you found us on Facebook and discovered our blog! Welcome!
I absolutely love your recipes! I try to make every one I see, please never stop!
Thank you so much Omar! That’s so great!! Thank you for following our blog!
The recipes are WOW!!!!!! love it
Thank you for that wonderful compliment! I’m so happy you discovered our blog.
Hi Natasha! I just discovered your blog yesterday when I was looking for a salmon salad recipe. We had your salmon avocado salad and LOVED it. My family and I spent five years teaching in Kyiv and spent much of that time learning what Ukrainian cuisine was all about (so much more than pork and potatoes!), so I was so excited to see that you’re celebrating your Ukrainian heritage through cooking. Can’t wait to explore more!
That’s so awesome! What a wonderful experience that must’ve been for you. Thank you for sharing that with me Morgan!
Hello from Dubai!
I just found your blog, thanks to the cheesy potato pancake video. I cannot wait to explore more and try some of your recipes.
Hi Jocelyn, I’m so happy you discovered our blog! Welcome!
HELLO! I sure am glad I found you’ll and the good recipes you share.
I’m sure I will be spending too much time on here learning what Ukranians and others eat, as well as spending a lot of money and time in the kitchen now…;-)
You know, when I saw that you’all were from another country, I was happy to read your story, but also saddened that people of all races and countries can not get along and share like we do on sites like this.
I pray for love and peace for us all.
Again, thanks for sharing, and keep up the good work. I am enjoying every moment I spend on here.
Have a great day!
P.S. Please DON’T share my info, o.k.?
Hi Patrisha, thank you for writing in! No worries, we never share your info when you leave a comment. I even masked your email address on the back end :). Have a great weekend!
hola , vi tu receta de biscocho con fresas ,lo hice y salio delicioso,entonces decidi pertenecer a tu blog y poder disfrutar de distintos sabores en la cocina….muchas gracias.
Thank you! I hope you love everything you try! 🙂
I just discovered your blog and am very excited to check out your pulled chicken recipe for my son’s going away party , as he will be leaving to be a Peace Corps volunteer in Ukraine this August.
I’m so happy you found our blog, Melanie! Welcome!
I love your recipes! Anytime I have tried something of yours, has never let me down….Last thing I tried was the Avocado Corn Salad…my family loved it~thank you!!!
I’m so happy you all enjoyed this as a family! Thank you for sharing that with us, Donna!
I just discovered your blog while searching for Swiss buttercream. Love it! Your entire site is wonderful! And it’s always good to discover a Christian based website!!!!!
I’m so happy you discovered our blog, Julie!! Welcome!