Pampushky as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Pampushky is absolutely in that category. The deeply comforting quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. beetroot does work that no substitute can replicate.

Ukrainian cuisine reflects centuries of agricultural abundance. There's something about the a village-style restaurant context that reinforces the comfort effect. horilka alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.