Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and diverse dishes, reflecting the country's vast geography and cultural influences. Staples include ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, and beets, often used in traditional meals such as borscht, a beet soup, and pelmeni, dumplings filled with meat. Meals are typically accompanied by bread, particularly rye bread, and often feature pickled vegetables. Dairy products like sour cream are common condiments, while beverages such as kvass and vodka are popular. Overall, Russian cuisine emphasizes warmth and comfort, making it ideal for the cold climate.