[Originally published on August 26, 2014]
Glory to Ukraine!
Two days ago (08-24-2014), Ukraine celebrated its Independence Day from the Soviet Union. I saw pictures and postings of Ukrainians from all over the world celebrating and supporting their country. Our family members and friends are still living there. Now we are far away from the land of our birth. We may have different opinions about the political and social situation and what is best for the country. We feel helpless in the face of violence and conflict ravaging the region. We make symbolic gestures of solidarity — paint something yellow and blue, wear beautiful traditional Ukrainian clothing with handmade embroidery, or put a sticker that says “Glory to Ukraine!” on our car bumpers. Today, more than any other day, those of us with roots deeply planted in Ukrainian soil feel connected and cannot help but find ways to express it.
I express my emotions and moods through the food that I prepare. I celebrated the Independence Day of Ukraine by cooking borsch. I wanted my daughter to save our family recipe. I also wanted to share how I make borsch today with local Texas ingredients.
