Ukrainians are reevaluating traditional holiday meals, moving away from Soviet-era staples heavy with mayonnaise, as reported on December 31, 2025. The shift reflects a broader cultural reclamation following the collapse of the Soviet Union and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

New Year's Eve remains a significant holiday for many families with roots in the former Soviet Union, a legacy of the Soviet regime's suppression of Christmas celebrations, according to food writer Polina Chesnakova. Chesnakova, who immigrated to the U.S. after the Soviet Union's dissolution, noted that this holiday held particular importance within communities of Soviet refugees.

Traditional dishes like shuba (herring under a fur coat) and Olivie salad, both characterized by their heavy use of mayonnaise, were once central to these celebrations. However, there is a growing movement to lighten these dishes or replace them with more distinctly Ukrainian fare. Kutia, a sweet barley porridge with berries, nuts, and stewed dried fruit traditionally served at Christmas, is gaining popularity as an alternative festive dish.

The move away from mayonnaise-laden dishes is seen by some as a rejection of Soviet culinary influence and an embrace of Ukrainian culinary identity. This trend mirrors broader efforts to decolonize Ukrainian culture and assert its independence. The change is not merely about taste; it symbolizes a deeper cultural and political shift.

The trend is evident in both home cooking and restaurant menus, with chefs experimenting with modern interpretations of classic Ukrainian dishes, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. This culinary evolution is expected to continue as Ukrainians further define their national identity in the years to come.