Zrazy

Zrazy are a popular dish of Ukrainian (and wider Eastern European) cuisine: thin pieces of pounded meat or sheets of potato mass into which a filling is wrapped, forming neat rolls or patties. The flavour and appeal of zrazy lie precisely in the contrast between the casing and the surprise filling hidden within.

There are two main kinds. Meat zrazy are made of thinly pounded slices of beef, pork, or veal (or of mince), into which a filling is placed — fried onion with mushrooms, egg, vegetables, grains — then wrapped into a roll, browned, and braised in sauce until tender. Potato zrazy are a popular hearty dish of mashed-potato mass, into which a filling of meat, mushrooms, cabbage, or curd is wrapped; patties are formed, rolled in flour or breadcrumbs, and fried to a golden crust. Zrazy are served hot, often with sour cream, sauce, or gravy. This dish is prized for its nourishment, heartiness, and that pleasant effect of surprise when under the crust an aromatic filling is revealed. Zrazy are an example of inventive home cooking that turns simple products into a refined, full dish.