Blini

Blini are traditional Eastern European thin pancakes, typically made from a batter of buckwheat or wheat flour, eggs, and milk or kefir, resulting in a soft, spongy texture. They are often served with savory toppings like smoked salmon, sour cream, and caviar, or sweet options like honey and fresh berries. Originating from Russia and Ukraine, they hold deep cultural significance and are a staple in many Slavic cuisines.

🍳 View the full Blini recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Blini are primarily a source of carbohydrates from the flour, with moderate protein from eggs and dairy, and fat depending on the cooking method and toppings. A typical serving of two medium blini provides roughly 200-300 calories, along with nutrients like calcium, iron, and B vitamins.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	100 kcal
Protein	3.5 g
Carbs	14 g
Fat	3.5 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	1.5 g
Sodium	180 mg
Calcium	45 mg
Iron	0.8 mg
Potassium	65 mg
Phosphorus	60 mg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)	0.08 mg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)	0.06 mg
Vitamin B12	0.2 mcg
Folate	15 mcg

Per 1 medium blini (about 50 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, blini are central to Maslenitsa, a Slavic festival celebrating the end of winter, where they symbolize the sun. Nutritionally, using buckwheat flour adds a boost of fiber and minerals, making them a more nutrient-dense option compared to standard pancakes.