Mandryky, pampushky, shulyky – sweet traditions of our ancestors

Sweets have always been an important part of Ukrainian culture. Our ancestors knew how to indulge themselves with delicious treats without complicated recipes and exotic ingredients. They used what nature provided: honey, poppy seeds, flour, eggs, and milk. Some traditional delicacies have survived through the ages, and today we can recreate these ancient recipes, tasting history. So let’s get to know mandryky, pampushky, and shulyky – a true gastronomic heritage of Ukraine.

Mandryky are small fluffy pampushky or cakes that Ukrainians have traditionally prepared, especially on the day of Saint Apostles Peter and Paul (July 12). According to legend, shepherds who grazed sheep in the mountains took these sweet treats with them on long journeys, hence the name – mandryky.

They were made from cheese or sour milk, with the addition of eggs, flour, sometimes a pinch of salt, and honey. They were fried in an oven or on a pan, and then generously drizzled with honey. This was not only a tasty but also a nutritious dish that kept well and provided strength on the road.

Pampushky in our cuisine are most often associated with borscht, but there is also a sweet version of this dish. They have a delicate texture and airy structure because they are made from yeast dough.

Sweet pampushky were traditionally sprinkled with powdered sugar, drizzled with honey or poppy seed sauce. They were often prepared for Christmas, Easter, or wedding celebrations. Children found pampushky especially delicious when served with homemade jam or fresh berries.

Shulyky are one of the oldest ritual dishes of Ukrainians, traditionally prepared on Makoviy (August 14). They can be considered the ancestors of modern cakes.

Shulyky were made from unleavened dough with water or milk, baked in the oven until crispy, then broken into small pieces and generously drizzled with diluted honey and poppy seeds. The poppy seeds for this dish were necessarily ground in a mortar until they became milky and tender. This dessert had not only a filling but also a symbolic meaning – shulyky were associated with fertility, abundance, and protection from evil forces.

These three dishes are just a small part of the rich gastronomic heritage of Ukrainians. They are not only delicious but also carry the history, culture, and traditions of our ancestors. Today we can prepare mandryky, pampushky, or shulyky in our own kitchens, using the same ingredients as our grandmothers and great-grandmothers.By reviving these traditions, we not only savor ancient recipes but also pass on to future generations the culture of the Ukrainian table – generous, warm, and filled with love.