It is week three of The Great Fast (Great Lent), and this Sunday marks the mid-point of the most significant and sacred time in Eastern Orthodoxy. This week is particularly important in the six week journey as it commemorates the Cross and Crucifixion of Christ, bringing the the physical and spiritual into balance.
The Great Lent is a time for physical and spiritual cleansing. During the forty days believers experience the Divine through a deeper connection with oneself and the world around. Through fasting, prayer and repentance, we are able to experience a deeper closeness to God.
Physically, fasting means depriving ourselves of certain foods, and limiting the general intake of food. Cutting out meat and other animal products allows our bodies to detox and experience a lighter state of being.
Spiritually, the deep introspection and mediation opens the door for an individual to receive the Holy Mysteries of the Divine.
So what can we eat during the Great Lent?
Traditional Russian cuisine eaten during Lent include pohlebka (pokh-leb-ka) – a type of veggie soup, soured or pickled veggies – like sauerkraut and pickled tomatoes, and various fish dishes.
Below are a few simple to make, traditional Russian recipes.