Bila Tserkva is a city located in the Kyiv Oblast of Ukraine, about 80 kilometers south of Kyiv. As of 2021, the city has a population of approximately 206,000 people. Bila Tserkva has a long history, having been founded in the 11th century as a fortification for the Kievan Rus. Throughout its history, it has been a center of trade and commerce, and today it is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious food and drinks.
One of the most popular traditional dishes in Bila Tserkva is borscht. This hearty soup is made with beets, potatoes, carrots, onions, cabbage, and meat, usually beef or pork. The vegetables are simmered for several hours until they are tender, and then the meat is added to the pot. The soup is typically served with a dollop of sour cream and a piece of bread.
Another staple of the local cuisine is varenyky, a type of dumpling that is similar to the Polish pierogi. Varenyky are typically filled with mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, or sauerkraut, and then boiled until they are tender. They are often served with butter and fried onions, or with a tomato sauce.
Holubtsi is another popular dish in Bila Tserkva. This is a type of stuffed cabbage roll that is filled with rice, meat, and vegetables, typically carrots and onions. The rolls are then baked in a tomato sauce until they are tender and flavorful.
For those who are looking for something sweet, there are many traditional desserts to choose from in Bila Tserkva. One of the most popular is varenyky z pivkom, which are dumplings filled with a mixture of honey, cottage cheese, and beer. They are typically served with a sweet cream sauce.
In addition to the delicious food, Bila Tserkva is also known for its drinks. One of the most popular is kvass, a fermented drink that is made from bread, sugar, and water. The bread is soaked in water and then mixed with sugar and yeast, and left to ferment for several days. The resulting drink is sweet, tangy, and refreshing, and is often served on hot summer days.
Another popular drink is horilka, a type of vodka that is made from wheat or rye. Horilka is typically served chilled and straight, although it can also be mixed with fruit juices or other mixers.
As for the lifestyle in Bila Tserkva, the people here lead relatively relaxed lives. The city is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, and many residents enjoy spending their free time outdoors. Meal times are typically structured around the traditional three meals a day, with breakfast being the smallest meal and dinner being the largest. Lunch is usually a quick meal, often consisting of a sandwich or a small snack.
In terms of nightlife, Bila Tserkva has a vibrant scene. There are many bars, clubs, and restaurants that are open late into the night, and the city is known for its lively atmosphere. However, the pace of life in Bila Tserkva is generally slower than in some of the larger cities in Ukraine, and many people prefer to spend their evenings at home with family and friends.