Caucasian hospitality on your plate: Vainakh cuisine on the updated menu of the National Centre RUSSIA Gastronomic Rows
The menu of the "South" corner of the Gastronomic Rows at the National Centre RUSSIA has been completely updated. Hearty and aromatic dishes of Vainakh cuisine, prepared according to traditional recipes from simple and clear ingredients, invite guests of the Centre to embark on a gastronomic journey to the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains.
Vainakh cuisine is one of the oldest in the North Caucasus. It combines the unique culinary traditions of Chechens and Ingushes. The foundation of the dishes is meat (including dried meat), a large amount of plant-based ingredients, cheese, pumpkin, cottage cheese, corn, wild garlic, as well as spicy seasonings, onion, garlic, and pepper. The philosophy of Vainakh cuisine implies a respectful attitude towards the product, as for the inhabitants of the North Caucasian region, food embodies a deep connection between people and nature.
A perfect beginning to exploring the Vainakh tradition is chapilg homemade flat bread filled with pumpkin. This is not just a southern flatbread but a true symbol of the hearth. Soft dough made with kefir, sweet pumpkin puree, and melted butter form the basis of that very food for the soul, which nourishes, warms, and soothes.
To add vigour and freshness, try the choban salad — crisp cucumbers and tomatoes combined with aromatic greens and herbs, dressed with olive oil and lemon sauce. A piquant flavour note is added to the dish by chanakh cheese, traditionally aged in large clay pots.
Zhizhig-galnash dish with meat is the true king of the Vainakh feast and the calling card of North Caucasian hospitality. Hand-moulded dumplings made from wheat flour, a rich garlic broth, and onion stewed to caramel softness — every element of this dish sends us back to the tradition of the whole family gathering around the shared table.
Succulent lyulya-kebab is prepared on a grill from finely chopped chicken meat. The dish is served with obligatory lavash bread, fresh vegetables, rice, and spicy adjika. The perfect balance of flavours will remind guests of mountain hikes and friendly feasts under the open sky.
The Vainakh menu of the "South" corner cooked on the grill. The recipes reveal the true character of southern cuisine and are passed down from generation to generation, with the main secret lying in respect for the meat, the right marinade, and, of course, the art of taming the fire.
The National Centre RUSSIA will open its doors again on 6 January. Visit the Gastronomic Rows and discover the richness of southern flavours, where simplicity is the highest degree of skill, while generosity and hospitality are the natural state of the soul.
The winter space of the Department Store at the National Centre RUSSIA has become a true New Year fairytale for lovers of home comfort and beautiful tableware.
Choose activities to your taste, register, and make this winter holiday unforgettable.
At the National Centre RUSSIA Department Store, you can make up a true winter skincare kit of products from Russian brands.
