Do Russians Rely on Greenhouse Vegetables?

Many people believe that Russians primarily consume greenhouse vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. However, this view is far from accurate. While greenhouse vegetables do play a role, they are by no means the staple of the Russian diet. Instead, the Russians have a diverse range of traditional foods that they consume regularly.

The Core of Russian Cuisine: Bread and Potatoes

The foundation of the Russian diet is bread, which is a daily staple for virtually everyone. Wheat bread is prevalent, and its production is a significant part of the agricultural landscape. Wheat fields are widespread, and the vast majority of them exist in open fields, not under greenhouses. Potatoes are equally important, and they are also a fundamental component of the Russian diet. These root vegetables are staples that are heavily cultivated in open fields, especially in the northern regions of Russia, where the climate is less favorable for greenhouse agriculture.

The prominence of potatoes in Russian cuisine is evident in numerous traditional dishes, such as pelmeni (Russian dumplings) and shchi (haretsky soup). Both these dishes rely heavily on potatoes, which are processed and preserved in various ways to ensure a steady supply throughout the long, harsh winters.

Preservation and Summer Bounty

Given the climate, Russians have developed sophisticated methods to preserve their food. Pickling is a traditional method used to preserve vegetables, especially cucumbers. Cucumbers, while grown in greenhouses, are not as prevalent as some might believe. In fact, there are people who also grow them in open fields. These cucumbers are often used for pickles, which are a common accompaniment to many Russian dishes.

Considering the cost of greenhouse vegetables, they are often more expensive than typical incomes. Therefore, most Russians opt for more affordable preservation methods like pickling, fermenting, and drying. These techniques ensure a steady supply of vegetables even during the winter months. Traditional techniques like making kolbasa (meat sausages) and preserving baninia (beets) are also common, contributing to a rich culinary heritage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Russian diet is not primarily based on greenhouse vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. Instead, the staples of their diet are wheat bread and potatoes. While greenhouse vegetables do have a role, especially in preserving fruits and vegetables, they are not the predominant source. The Russian culinary tradition revolves around the preservation and consumption of traditional foods, such as bread and potatoes, which are essential throughout the year.