Authentic Ukrainian Kolyba Recipe Page

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of beef
  • 2 large onions
  • 1 large carrot
  • 3 large potatoes
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2.5 liters of water
  • 50 grams of fresh dill
  • 50 grams of fresh parsley
  • 50 ml of sunflower oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the beef into small cubes and set aside.
  2. Peel and finely chop the onions and garlic.
  3. Grate the carrot and set aside.
  4. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
  5. In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat.
  6. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until golden brown.
  7. Add the grated carrot to the pot and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
  8. Add the beef to the pot and cook until it is browned on all sides.
  9. Add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, and bay leaves to the pot and stir well.
  10. Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil.
  11. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 hour.
  12. Add the potatoes to the pot and continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft.
  13. Finely chop the dill and parsley and add them to the pot. Stir well and remove from heat.
  14. Let the Kolyba sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace beef with chicken or lamb for a different flavor.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn for added color and texture.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
  • Make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with mushrooms or tofu.
  • Add a splash of red wine or vinegar for a tangy twist.
  • For a creamy variation, stir in some sour cream or heavy cream towards the end of cooking.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing citrus flavor.
  • Top each serving with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
  • Spice it up with chili flakes or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
  • For a heartier version, add barley, rice, or noodles to make it more filling.

Recipe overview

This Kolyba recipe is a hearty and traditional dish that is sure to warm you up on a cold day. It's a delicious beef stew, loaded with root vegetables and flavored with fresh herbs and spices. The recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs. The ingredients are common and easy to find, and the cooking process is relatively quick and easy, making this a great meal option for any day of the week. In less than two hours, you'll have a flavorful stew that serves four, ideal for a family meal or gathering with friends. Serving Kolyba with a side of fresh bread makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats such as pork or chicken if desired.
  2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones? While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs.
  3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Kolyba by replacing the beef with plant-based protein alternatives such as tofu or tempeh. To make it vegan, ensure that all ingredients used are free from animal products.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, Kolyba tastes even better when reheated the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
  5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of Kolyba for future enjoyment. Allow it to cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy cutting surface for preparing ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting meat, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Grater - To grate the carrot for the recipe.
  • Large pot - A pot large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - For stirring the Kolyba while it cooks.
  • Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the salt, pepper, and tomato paste.
  • Timer - To keep track of cooking times.
  • Ladle - For serving the Kolyba into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - Deep bowls to serve the Kolyba.
  • Garnish bowls - Small bowls for holding fresh dill and parsley as garnish.

Origin stories

Kolyba is a rich and hearty soup that hails from the rustic kitchens of Ukraine. Its cultural significance is immense, as it is traditionally prepared during the Orthodox Christmas festivities. The name "Kolyba" is derived from "Kutia", a ceremonial grain dish with poppy seeds, honey, and dried fruits, which was served at the family meal called "Kolyada". Over time, Kolyba has become a stand-alone dish, typically made with meat, vegetables, and flavored with local herbs. For Ukrainians, it's not just a soup, but a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people. Each simmering pot of Kolyba is a reminder of the rich agrarian traditions, intense winters, and the culinary wisdom handed down through generations in Ukraine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.