Pirogi, vodka and blini are familiar enough to many people, but what surprises might await us when we try ukha, khachapuri, or plov? Russia, aind the former Russian Empire, offer a wealth of culinary delicacies that are hardly known to us, a myriad of foods and flavors fed by the most diverse influences and cultures at the intersection of Orient and Occident. This book explores the extraordinary breadth of this fascinating, multicultural cuisine in informative texts written by selected experts with deep understanding of the countries, paired with impressive photography. Readers will find a generous selection of authentic recipes that invite them to explore this new culinary terrain up close and personal, through cooking, eating, and enjoying.