A Taste of Russia

Darra Goldstein

Revised and Updated Third Edition

Edward & Dee Books

When you come for a visit, we’ll give you melons the likes of which you’ve never tasted! And you’ll find no better honey in any other village. Why, when we bring in the honeycomb, the scent fills the room! You can’t imagine it, our honey is pure as the Tsarina’s tears, or the clear crystal of her earrings. And the pies, what pies my old lady will feed you! If you only knew, they’re sugar, pure sugar! and the butter brims on your lips when you bite into them! Wizards these old ladies are! Did you ever drink kvass made from pears and blackthorn berries? or vodka infused with raisins and plums? Have you eaten frumenty with milk? My friends, what glorious flavors there are in the world! Once you start eating, you can hardly stop...ah, sweet nectar of life! Why, only last year...But what am I prattling on about? You’ll just have to come see us, come soon! We’ll feed you such treats you’ll tell all the world.