Fun in finger foods. Out: sit-down dinners. In: small plates and finger foods like the very trendy Russian-style tapas called zakuski. As far back as Tolstoy’s 19th century, the custom was to individually plate an array of what literally translates into “small bites” and eat them in a set order.
The key to really pulling it off, though, says Johansson, a noted chef herself, is to pair the zakuski with an authentic premium Russian vodka, which to her means Russian Standard Vodka. “It’s the number-one premium vodka in Russia, and it’s perfect for drinking neat or in cocktails, and excellent paired with food.”
• Creativity shines in centerpieces. Why spend a fortune on store-bought white roses for your dinner table? Pick some pine cones and holly leaves while out strolling, say, throw in a few cinnamon sticks and clove-laden oranges, and you’ve got yourself a masterpiece so delicious-smelling that it doubles as an air freshener.
• Toast to great times. Russians certainly know how to drink vodka, and toasting is the perfect invitation to celebrate and party. The traditional way of toasting in Russia is continuous and lasts throughout the night, which can only lead to a great time!
• House cocktail to invite tastebuds. Even if your guests’ tastes lean more toward chips-and-dip than zakuski, Johansson says that vodka – used as the base for a custom cocktail like the one below – is “a definite crowd pleaser.”