Rasstegai facts for kids
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| Type | Pirog |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Russia |
Rasstegai (Russian: расстегай) is a special type of Russian pirog, which is a kind of baked bun or small pie. What makes a rasstegai unique is the small hole on its top. This tasty pastry is a popular part of Russian cooking.
Contents
What is a Rasstegai?
A rasstegai is a delicious Russian baked good. It's often shaped like a boat or a small, round pie. The most interesting part is the opening at the top. This opening is not just for looks; it has a special purpose!
What's Inside?
The filling inside a rasstegai can be different things. Most often, you'll find fish inside, like salmon or sturgeon. But sometimes, people also fill them with meat, liver, rice, or mushrooms.
The Special Hole
The small hole on top of the rasstegai is very clever. Before eating, people can pour a little bit of warm broth or melted butter into this opening. This makes the filling even juicier and more flavorful! The word "rasstegai" in Russian actually means "unfastened" or "unbuttoned," which describes how the pie is open at the top.
A Glimpse into History
Rasstegai pies were very popular a long time ago in Russia, especially during the time of the Tsars (the emperors of Russia). They were a favorite treat in many homes and restaurants.
A Story Behind the Name
One interesting story about the name "rasstegai" comes from Moscow. It's said that a beautiful singer named Katya, who sang in a gypsy choir, was very famous for a Russian song called "Sarafan-rasstegaychik." Because of her popularity, these open-topped pies became very well-known in Moscow's taverns and were named in her honor.
Rasstegai in Books
This famous Russian dish has even appeared in classic Russian literature! You can find mentions of rasstegai in famous books like Dead Souls by Nikolai Gogol and Moscow and the Muscovites by Vladimir Gilyarovsky. This shows how important and well-loved rasstegai has been in Russian culture for many years.
