Dried Fish

The windows of apartment buildings in Russia’s provincial cities are often adorned with bunches of fish that have been hung out to dry, adding a homely touch to an otherwise drab urban landscape. The Russians dry all kinds of fish, as long as it is very fresh, but especially prized is the Don River’s rybets (vimba), with its delicate flesh. This dried fish makes a perfect summertime picnic when served with boiled potatoes and plenty of beer or kvass.