Why Russians Love Dill: A Look at Their Favorite Herbs & Spices

Apr 20

Introduction

If you’ve ever eaten Russian food, you’ve likely noticed one ingredient that seems to be everywhere: dill. Whether sprinkled over a steaming bowl of borscht, mixed into a fresh cucumber salad, or infused in marinades and soups, dill is a staple in Russian cuisine. But why is this herb so beloved in Russia? What other herbs and spices define Russian cooking? Let's take a deep dive into Russia’s favorite seasonings and their cultural significance.

Dill isn’t just an herb in Russia—it’s a symbol of home cooking, tradition, and nostalgia. Walk into any Russian kitchen, and you're bound to find fresh dill sitting on the countertop or drying in bunches. It is woven into the fabric of Russian cuisine, playing a role in everything from pickled vegetables to hearty soups. For many Russians, the smell of dill evokes childhood memories of home-cooked meals prepared by their mothers and grandmothers.

One of the main reasons dill is so prevalent in Russia is its adaptability to the country’s climate. It grows well in Russian soil and is easy to cultivate, making it a readily available and inexpensive herb for both urban and rural households. Additionally, its long history in Russian cooking dates back centuries, intertwining with cultural and culinary traditions passed down through generations. Whether used fresh, dried, or even frozen for winter use, dill continues to be an essential part of Russian gastronomy.

The Love Affair with Dill

A Flavor That Feels Like Home

For Russians, dill isn’t just a garnish—it’s a nostalgic taste that connects people to their childhood, their grandmother’s cooking, and the traditions of home. The distinct, slightly tangy and grassy flavor of dill pairs well with a variety of dishes, from meats to dairy products and vegetables.

Historical Roots of Dill in Russia

Dill has been used in Russian cuisine for centuries. It thrives in Russia’s climate, growing abundantly in gardens and farms across the country. Because of its accessibility and health benefits, dill became a staple in Russian households and remains deeply ingrained in the culinary tradition today.

Health Benefits of Dill

Beyond its taste, dill is also known for its medicinal properties:

Aids digestion: Dill is often used to soothe stomach discomfort and bloating.
Rich in antioxidants: It helps reduce inflammation and supports overall health.
Supports the immune system: Dill contains vitamin C, which helps fight infections.

More Essential Herbs and Spices in Russian Cuisine

While dill is undoubtedly the star, Russian cuisine features a variety of other herbs and spices that contribute to its unique flavors.

1. Parsley – The Trusty Companion to Dill

Parsley is another widely used herb in Russian cooking. It adds a slightly peppery and fresh taste to soups, salads, and meat dishes. Together with dill, parsley often forms the base of herb mixes used in Russian recipes.

2. Bay Leaves – A Stew Essential

Bay leaves are a must-have for making Russian soups and stews. They provide a subtle depth of flavor and are commonly used in dishes like shchi (cabbage soup) and rassolnik (pickle soup).

3. Garlic – The Bold and Spicy

Garlic is frequently used in Russian cuisine to enhance the flavor of meats, sauces, and even fermented vegetables like pickled tomatoes and cucumbers. It adds a robust and slightly spicy kick to dishes.

4. Black Pepper – A Simple Yet Powerful Spice

Unlike some cuisines that use complex spice blends, Russian food relies heavily on black pepper for seasoning. It’s used in everything from meat dishes to soups, providing a gentle heat without overpowering the main ingredients.

5. Horseradish – The Russian Alternative to Wasabi

Horseradish is another strong-flavored ingredient commonly found in Russian cuisine. It’s used in condiments, paired with fish, and even infused into vodka for a traditional spicy kick.

6. Mustard – The Russian Way

Russian mustard is known for its intense spiciness. Unlike the milder Dijon or American mustard, Russian mustard has a sharp, fiery taste that makes it a popular accompaniment to meats and sandwiches.

How These Herbs and Spices Shape Russian Cuisine

Pickling and Fermentation

Russians love pickled foods, and herbs and spices play a key role in the pickling process. Dill, garlic, and bay leaves are essential ingredients in pickled cucumbers, tomatoes, and cabbage.

Soups: The Heart of Russian Comfort Food

Russian soups rely heavily on herbs and spices for their deep, comforting flavors. Borscht, solyanka, and okroshka all feature combinations of dill, parsley, and bay leaves.

Meat and Fish Dishes

From marinated herring to shashlik (Russian-style kebabs), herbs and spices enhance the flavors of meat and fish, making them more flavorful and aromatic.

Where to Experience Authentic Russian Flavors in the Bay Area

If you’re in Berkeley, San Francisco, or Oakland, you can explore Russian flavors in local Eastern European markets and restaurants. Many of these spots sell fresh dill, Russian mustard, and other key ingredients, so you can bring a taste of Russia into your own kitchen.

Learn Russian and Dive Deeper into the Culture

At Polyglottist Language Academy, we believe that language and culture go hand in hand. If you want to explore Russian cuisine beyond just tasting it, learning the language can help you understand traditional recipes, cooking methods, and cultural traditions.

Check out our Russian classes here!