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Russia · Drinks

Ryazhenka

180 min
170 kcal
4 servings

By eatmundo · September 8, 2026

Ryazhenka🇷🇺AI-generated image

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

13 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Ryazhenka. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Fermented drink32 recipes from 15 countriesSee all 13 matches

A traditional fermented milk drink with a creamy, caramel-like flavor. It is produced by long-simmering milk to caramelize sugars before fermentation.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Ryazhenka from another cuisine is Café con Leche (Spain): the two share 50% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
4 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    Pour 1 liter of whole milk into a heavy-bottomed pot.

  • 2

    Simmer the milk over low heat for 3 hours, stirring occasionally until it turns light beige.

  • 3

    Remove from heat and let it cool to 40°C (104°F) by checking with a thermometer.

  • 4

    Stir in 2 tablespoons of high-quality sour cream to act as a starter.

  • 5

    Pour the mixture into a ceramic jar and cover with a clean cloth.

  • 6

    Place the jar in a warm spot for 8 hours until thickened.

  • 7

    Transfer the jar to the refrigerator for 4 hours to firm up before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ryazhenka?

Ryazhenka is a traditional Slavic fermented milk product made from slowly simmered milk. It is characterized by a creamy, light brown color and a distinctive caramel flavor derived from the slow heating process of the milk.

Can I use low-fat milk?

It is not recommended, as the fat content is essential for the smooth, creamy texture and proper fermentation.

How long does it stay fresh?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it remains best for up to 5 days.

What if it doesn't thicken?

The ambient temperature might have been too low; ensure the starter was fresh and the room temperature remained steady.

Is it like yogurt?

While similar in consistency, the primary difference is the caramelized milk base which gives it a much richer, dessert-like profile.

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