A special themed culinary event titled “Viburnum Vibes and Thyme Flavors” took place at the Ocheretynska Settlement Territorial Community Hub.
The event was dedicated to the presentation of a local element of intangible cultural heritage: “The technique of making baked pies with viburnum and thyme in the village of Novoselivka, Ocheretynska Settlement Territorial Community.”
In addition to the culinary aspect, the gathering also had a cultural and educational dimension. Attendees were told about the significance of this element as part of intangible cultural heritage, its role in preserving local identity, and the importance of passing knowledge down from generation to generation.
Anna Smirnova, a resident of the village of Novoselivka in the Ocheretynska community, spoke about the ancient dish—baked pies with viburnum and thyme—which held special significance in her family.
At the meeting, attendees had the opportunity to watch a video presentation on the traditional method of preparing baked pies. Olena Pinyaeva, a master baker from the village of Orlivka in the Ocheretyn community, shared the finer points of kneading the dough, preparing the viburnum filling, and adding thyme, which was harvested on Trinity Sunday and then incorporated into the dough. It is the thyme that gives the pastries their characteristic steppe aroma.
The event brought together community residents, representatives of the village military administration, healthcare providers, community educational institutions, students, war veterans, and family members of military personnel. Representatives of the Donetsk Regional Educational and Methodological Center for Culture also joined the gathering.
Participants had the opportunity not only to observe the process but also to enjoy some traditional pastries. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, the aroma of fresh baked goods, and heartfelt conversation.
True treasures are not only monuments but also living traditions that should be preserved, nurtured, and passed on. Together, we are reviving Ukrainian heritage!
Based on materials from the Ocheretine Village Military Administration