Traditional Lenten dishes for Christmas in Ukraine: what should you prepare?

Christmas in Ukraine is unimaginable without a lavish festive table and ancient culinary traditions. Each dish has its own symbolic meaning and is prepared for a reason. Find out more about the 12 traditional dishes Ukrainians put on the Christmas table and what every guest of the country should try

Christmas is one of the most important and warmest holidays in Ukrainian culture, with a special place for family meals. On Christmas Eve, Ukrainians traditionally prepare 12 meatless dishes that symbolize the apostles, prosperity, family unity, and gratitude for the past year. These dishes have been passed down from generation to generation, preserving regional peculiarities and ancient customs. It is through food that one can better understand Ukrainian history, beliefs, and the festive atmosphere of Christmas.

In our previous article, we described in detail the traditions of Christmas in Ukraine.

Traditional Christmas dishes in Ukraine

A Christmas Eve dinner is not just a set of meatless dishes, but a whole system of symbols associated with faith, nature, and family values. Each of the 12 dishes has its own meaning and is a must-have on the table in most Ukrainian families.

1. Kutia

Kutia is the main and most important dish on the Christmas table, which traditionally begins the Holy Supper. It is made from wheat or barley, with poppy seeds, honey, and nuts. Kutia symbolizes life, prosperity and the memory of ancestors, as well as family unity. It is believed that the well-being of the new year depends on its taste.

2. Uzvar

Uzvar is a traditional drink made from dried fruit, most often pears, apples, and plums. It represents health, purification, and the beginning of a new life cycle. Uzvar is served chilled or warm and is considered a must-have drink on Christmas Eve. Its sweet taste symbolizes a sweet life in the coming year.

3. Lenten borsch

Christmas borsch is made without meat, but with beets, cabbage, beans, and mushrooms. In many regions, it has a rich, deep flavor due to the mushroom broth. Borsch symbolizes home comfort, warmth, and hospitality. It is one of the most satisfying dishes of a festive dinner.

4. Dumplings with cabbage

Dumplings with sauerkraut or stewed cabbage are a classic lean dish for Christmas. They symbolize labor, fertility and respect for the land. Each family has its own recipe for dough and filling. Varenyky are considered a sign of prosperity and family well-being.

5. Dumplings with potatoes

Another traditional type of dumpling that is loved by both adults and children. The potato filling makes the dish nutritious, but at the same time lean. These dumplings symbolize simplicity, satiety, and daily well-being. They are served with fried onions or butter.

6. Lenten cabbage rolls

Christmas cabbage rolls are made without meat, using a filling of rice, millet or vegetables. The cabbage leaves that envelop the filling symbolize protection and harmony in the family. Cabbage rolls are considered a sign of peace and understanding. In different regions, the filling may vary slightly.

7. Fish

Fish is an important dish on the Christmas table because of its Christian significance. It is prepared fried, baked or marinated. Fish symbolizes spiritual purity and faith. Often there are several types of fish dishes on the table.

8. Herring

Herring is a simple but obligatory dish on Christmas Eve. It is served marinated, with onions and oil, or in the form of salads. Herring symbolizes modesty and prosperity at the same time. This dish is especially popular in the central and northern regions of Ukraine.

9. Mushroom soup

Mushroom soup is a traditional soup based on dried mushrooms, common in the western regions of Ukraine. It has a rich aroma and deep flavor. Mushrooms symbolize the connection with nature and the forest.

10. Beans or peas

Beans or peas are cooked boiled or stewed with vegetables. The dish symbolizes the unity, strength, and endurance of the community. People believed that beans brought health and prosperity. They are often flavored with garlic or onions.

11. Pampushki

Pampushki are small, lean buns, sometimes with poppy seeds or honey. They symbolize joy, celebration, and home comfort. They are often baked especially for Christmas as a sign of hospitality. Their aroma creates a special festive atmosphere in the house.

12. Stewed or sauerkraut

Cabbage is one of the simplest but most important dishes on Christmas Eve. It symbolizes stability, modesty, and connection to the earth. Cabbage is cooked stewed or served sauerkraut. This dish complements other Christmas dishes and balances the festive table.

In the previous article, we told you what colors are best to celebrate the New Year of the Fire Horse in 2026.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Why exactly 12 dishes are prepared for Christmas Eve

The tradition of cooking 12 dishes on Christmas Eve has a deep symbolic meaning. The most common interpretation connects this number with the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. At the same time, in the folk tradition, the number 12 symbolizes the fullness of the year - 12 months, during which the family gives thanks for the harvest and events that have taken place. It was believed that the richer and more varied the festive table, the happier and more prosperous the next year would be.

To learn more about Christmas traditions in different European countries, please follow the link.

Christmas traditions in different regions of Ukraine

Although the main dishes remain the same across the country, each region of Ukraine has its own Christmas culinary specialties. In western Ukraine, mushroom soup and several types of kutia are more commonly prepared, while in Podillia and the central regions, dumplings and lean borscht are popular. In the southern regions, more attention is paid to fish dishes, while in Polissia, beans and peas are traditionally added to the table. These differences make Ukrainian Christmas so diverse and colorful.

Christmas is not only a delicious dinner, but also a time to give warmth and attention to your loved ones. If you're looking for a special Christmas gift, check out Visit Ukraine merchandise - stylish, symbolic items that convey the spirit of Ukrainian traditions and will be a great reminder of the festive atmosphere and support for Ukraine.

Choose your favorite product and become part of a large community that supports Ukraine!

We remind you! Winter in the Carpathians traditionally attracts tourists with snow, mountain scenery and a festive atmosphere. At the same time, the cost of living in popular resorts can vary significantly depending on the location and format of the accommodation. Read more about the average cost of renting houses and rooms in the Carpathians this winter and where you can save money on accommodation.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – health insurance with coverage of war risks;

Visit Ukraine Mini Hull Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Osago – compulsory motor third party liability insurance for cars with Ukrainian registration;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.