Russian people are known as the keepers of traditional recipes. The starters (zakuski) are usually represented by the salads, often with sour cream or mayonnaise, meats and fish, such as smoked salmon and caviar, or pickled vegetables. Russian traditional soup is Shchee (cabbage soup), but the locals also prefer Borshch (beetroot base), originated from Ukraine. The most popular meals are Pelmeni (a variant of ravioli, which comes from Siberia), Piroshki (small meat or vegetable pies, which can be eaten hot or cold), Blini (often served as the ideal accompaniment to caviar). The Russian passion for vodka is widely recognized, it is really worth trying. Another Russian specialty is Kvas, a semi-alcoholic drink, made from fermented rye bread water.