6 russian appetizer recipes

Kazakh gutap: deep-fried herb fritters with a thin laminated dough wrapped around dill, parsley, garlic, scallions, and butter. Served with a tangy sour cream sauce.

Russian marinated herring (selyodka) layered in Mason jars with olives, dried chilis, coriander, mustard seeds, and a sweet vinegar brine. Ready after 5 to 7 days in the fridge.

Russian herring in mustard sauce with sour cream, olive oil, and capers. A classic cold zakuska appetizer that marinates for hours and pairs with dark bread and vodka.

Russian chicken liver pate (pashtet) with butter, onions, garlic, and white bread baked into a smooth, rich spread. Served cold as an elegant appetizer.

Smoky roasted eggplant mashed with fresh tomato, garlic, and a splash of red wine vinegar. This Odessa-style eggplant caviar is a rustic Russian appetizer that's just as good spread on pita as it is on dark rye bread.

Selyodka pod ukropnym sousom is a Russian herring appetizer marinated in red wine vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and dill. A classic cold zakuska that chills for hours before serving.