Book excerpt: Winner of the 2012 Gourmand Cookbook Award for Best Eastern European Cookbook! Now available in paperback, this popular Hippocrene cookbook introduces readers to the fresh foods, exquisite tastes, hospitality and generous spirit of the Ukrainian table. Scattered amongst the recipes are quotes, poems, historical facts, folklore, and illustrations, making this cookbook not only a culinary adventure but a unique cultural exploration as well. Includes: More than 200 easy-to-follow recipes An introduction to Ukraine's history, culture, and cuisine Helpful tips and notes with many recipes Charming illustrations by renowned Ukrainian-American artist Laurette Kovary This authentic cookbook invites the home cook to sample, explore and experiment with the freshest ingredients to prepare appetizers such as Pickled Herring, or one of eight regional variations of the quintessential Ukrainian soup, Borshch. You'll find classics such as Chicken Kyiv or Holiday-Stuffed Roast Goose, or select more contemporary dishes like Grilled Pork Tenderloin served with a delectable plum sauce or Venison Steaks with Cherry-Mustard Butter. From elegant fare such as Whole Salmon in Aspic or Poached Carp Fillets with Yogurt-Scallion Sauce to classic homestyle dishes like stuffed cabbage (Holubsti) and dumplings (Varenyky), there is something for every occasion. Get the inside scoop on how to prepare special holiday breads like Ukrainian Paska or Orange-Iced Babka and detailed instructions on how to make various bread pastries, cakes and tortes. Readers will certainly fall in love with Ukraine all over again, or perhaps, for the first time.