Perm, located on the western slopes of the Ural Mountains, is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. One of the best ways to explore the city’s heritage is through its local cuisine. Perm’s food reflects its diverse cultural influences, combining traditional Russian flavors with elements from the Ural region. Whether you’re a seasoned food lover or a curious traveler, trying the local dishes in Perm is a delightful way to experience the city’s culinary traditions. Here are some of the best local foods to try when visiting Perm.
1. Pirozhki
A Traditional Russian Snack
Pirozhki are small, delicious pastries that are beloved in Perm and throughout Russia. These hand-held treats come in a variety of fillings, including meat, potatoes, mushrooms, cabbage, and even sweet fillings like fruit jam or cottage cheese. Often deep-fried or baked, pirozhki are perfect for a quick snack while exploring the historic streets of Perm. You’ll find them in many local bakeries and cafes, where they are freshly made and served warm. The crispy exterior combined with the savory or sweet filling makes pirozhki a comforting and satisfying bite.
Where to Try Pirozhki
Look for local bakeries or cafes along the city’s main streets, such as Komsomolsky Prospekt, where fresh pirozhki are a popular offering.
2. Pelmeni
Russian Dumplings with a Local Twist
Pelmeni are perhaps one of the most famous dishes in Russian cuisine, and Perm is no exception. These dumplings are made by wrapping a filling, usually minced meat such as pork, beef, or lamb, in thin dough and boiling them until perfectly tender. The Ural region, where Perm is located, is known for its hearty, filling dishes, and pelmeni fit perfectly into this tradition. Often served with sour cream, butter, or a vinegar-based sauce, pelmeni are comforting and flavorful.
Where to Try Pelmeni
Many local restaurants serve pelmeni, but for a truly authentic experience, visit traditional Russian eateries in the city center or explore local markets for freshly prepared versions.
3. Kholodets
A Russian Classic: Jelly Meat
Kholodets, or jellied meat, is a dish that might be an acquired taste for some, but it’s an important part of Russian cuisine. Made by boiling meat, usually pork or beef, along with vegetables and spices, kholodets is then cooled until it forms a gelatinous texture. The result is a savory jelly that is often served as a cold appetizer or side dish. It’s typically accompanied by mustard, horseradish, or vinegar, which help to cut through the richness of the dish.
Where to Try Kholodets
You can find kholodets at many traditional Russian restaurants in Perm. It’s particularly popular during festive seasons, so look out for it on special menus.
4. Shchi
A Hearty Cabbage Soup
Shchi is a traditional Russian soup that dates back to the times of the Tsars. Made primarily from cabbage, this dish can vary depending on the region, but in Perm, it often includes pork or beef. The soup is flavored with onions, carrots, potatoes, and herbs, making it both nourishing and flavorful. Shchi is typically served with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of rye bread on the side, making it a perfect dish to warm you up on a cold Ural day.
Where to Try Shchi
You can find shchi in most Russian restaurants, but for the best version, head to one of Perm’s cozy cafes or family-owned eateries where the soup is often made from scratch with fresh, local ingredients.
5. Medovik (Honey Cake)
A Sweet Russian Delight
Perm’s local cuisine wouldn’t be complete without a taste of Medovik, a traditional Russian honey cake. This dessert is made by layering thin, honey-flavored sponge cakes with a creamy filling, often made from sour cream or condensed milk. The result is a sweet, rich, and slightly tangy cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Medovik is especially popular in the Ural region, where it’s often served at family gatherings or festive celebrations.
Where to Try Medovik
You can find Medovik in many of Perm’s bakeries, cafes, and dessert shops. Look for local dessert spots where the cake is prepared fresh and served in generous slices.
6. Selyodka Pod Shuboy (Herring Under a Fur Coat)
A Colorful Russian Salad
Selyodka pod shuboy is a classic Russian dish that’s as visually striking as it is delicious. This layered salad features pickled herring at the bottom, followed by layers of boiled potatoes, carrots, onions, beets, and mayonnaise. The vibrant pink hue of the beets makes this dish stand out, and its combination of salty, tangy, and creamy flavors is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s commonly served at holidays and festive gatherings but can be found at many restaurants in Perm year-round.
Where to Try Selyodka Pod Shuboy
This salad is commonly served in Russian bistros and restaurants, especially those specializing in traditional Russian or Ural cuisine.
7. Ural Fish Dishes
Fresh Fish from the Kama River
Given Perm’s proximity to the Kama River, fish dishes are an essential part of the local diet. Traditional Ural fish dishes often feature fresh river fish such as pike, perch, and roach, which are caught from the river and prepared in a variety of ways. You might find fish served grilled, baked, or in a hearty soup. The most popular fish dish in Perm is “rybnaya sup” (fish soup), which is made by simmering fish with potatoes, carrots, and herbs to create a flavorful and aromatic broth.
Where to Try Ural Fish Dishes
Visit local eateries near the Kama River, where fresh fish is often sourced daily. Many restaurants serve traditional fish soups and grilled fish, offering a taste of Perm’s local waters.
8. Vareniki
Russian Dumplings with Sweet Fillings
Vareniki are similar to pelmeni but with a twist – they can be filled with a variety of ingredients, both savory and sweet. In Perm, vareniki are often filled with potatoes, mushrooms, or sweet fillings like cherries or cottage cheese. These dumplings are boiled and served with a variety of accompaniments, including sour cream, butter, or syrup. Vareniki is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether as a starter, a main course, or even a dessert.
Where to Try Vareniki
Local family-run restaurants and traditional cafes in Perm often serve vareniki with a range of fillings, making it easy to enjoy this delicious dish in the heart of the city.
9. Kvass
A Traditional Russian Beverage
Kvass is a traditional Russian drink that’s particularly refreshing in the summer months. Made from fermented rye bread, kvass has a mildly sweet and sour flavor that is both refreshing and energizing. It’s often served chilled and can be found in many street stalls and cafes throughout Perm. Kvass is not only a tasty beverage but also offers a bit of cultural history, as it has been a staple drink in Russia for centuries.
Where to Try Kvass
Look for street vendors or cafes in Perm, especially in the warmer months, where kvass is often served fresh from a large wooden barrel.
Conclusion
Perm offers a rich and diverse culinary experience that reflects the city’s deep historical roots and cultural influences. From hearty dishes like pelmeni and shchi to sweet treats like medovik, the city’s food will delight your taste buds and offer a true taste of local life. Whether you’re wandering the historic streets of Perm or relaxing in a cozy cafe, make sure to try these traditional dishes for an authentic culinary journey.