Ukrainian Crepes Workshop at Markthalle Basel

Ukrainian Crepes Workshop at Markthalle Basel

On September 22, 2025, Kozak Buvette had the pleasure of hosting a Ukrainian Crepes and Filled Crepes Workshop at Markthalle Basel. The event brought participants together to cook, taste, and enjoy both sweet and savory crepes, creating a joyful and hands-on culinary experience.

During the workshop, participants prepared crepes with sweet fillings such as cottage cheese with raisins, Posamenter plum jam, and honey from Rodic Honey, as well as savory crêpes filled with feta and mushrooms. All ingredients, including Rodic Honey and Posamenter jam, were locally sourced—reflecting Kozak Buvette’s commitment to supporting local producers.

In Ukrainian culture, Mlynci are thin crêpes, while Nalysnyky are filled crêpes. Mlynci are typically served plain and enjoyed with butter, honey, or jam, while nalysnyky are stuffed with various fillings such as cottage cheese, berries, meat, mushrooms, or potato. These dishes are symbols of the sun, warmth, and hospitality, reflecting the Ukrainian values of generosity and celebration. They are versatile and appear both in everyday meals and festive occasions.

One of the most important celebrations featuring these dishes is Masnytsia, a Slavic festival that marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Also known as Crêpes Week, Masnytsia is celebrated during the last week before Lent—a time of feasting, merriment, and community gathering. Families prepare mlynci and nalysnyky to honor the sun, expressing gratitude for its warmth and light, essential for life and the new agricultural season. The round, golden crêpes symbolize the sun, making them a meaningful centerpiece of the festival.

During Masnytsia, crêpes can be served plain or filled, highlighting both sweet and savory traditions. Sweet fillings include cottage cheese with raisins, berries, jam, or honey, while savory options feature cheese, mushrooms, or meat. Preparing and sharing these dishes brings family and community together in a spirit of togetherness, abundance, and cultural heritage.

The workshop offered participants not only the chance to savour the flavours of Ukrainian cuisine but also to discover the cultural traditions and symbolism behind these beloved dishes. It was a celebration of slow food, hands-on cooking, and the joy of sharing meals together.

By bringing Ukrainian flavors and traditions to Basel, Kozak Buvette continues to promote local, sustainable ingredients—connecting people through the universal language of food.