The Seoul International Women’s Association held a cooking event in end-February where traditional Ukrainian dishes were presented alongside folk music and dance.

Yulia Savelieva, second secretary at the Ukrainian embassy, cooked “Varenyky” ― a dumpling dish made of potato, stewed cabbage, mushrooms and strawberry and enjoyed during the Christmas, New Year and Easter ― and “Kutia” ― a rice-pudding-like dish made of wheat or boiled rice with raisins and nuts.

Savelieva’s father, Valentin, who is a professional singer in Ukraine, sang folk songs while dancing in a traditional costume, inviting participants into the medley with hands joined together. Savelieva’s mother Tetyana assisted her cooking.
 

“This event was started two years ago with the aim of combining culture and cuisine,” international culinary exchange chair Michelle Morrison said. “By cooking food from different countries, SIWA members grow each other’s understanding as foreigners in Korea.”

The venue has become so popular that registration is filled within days, Morrison said. The spouses of diplomats in Korea usually participate, but the SIWA events are open to everyone.

The next ICE event will feature Japanese cuisine in March, and the April event will feature Belgian cuisine. For more information, visit www.siwapage.com.

By Joel Lee (joel@heraldcorp.com)