Ukrainian cabbage rolls named the best in Brazil’s Paraná state

Traditional Ukrainian holubtsi, or stuffed cabbage rolls, earned the top honor at the Best Food in Paraná contest in Brazil, according to the local publication Agência Estadual de Notícias.

The dish was prepared by Clarice Iaciuk Costa Rosa, a school cook from Prudentópolis, a town that boasts a large Ukrainian community.

“My greatest joy is cooking for children. It was the children who suggested I make stuffed cabbage rolls for the competition. We decided it should be a dish connected to Ukraine, symbolizing the Ukrainian heritage of our city,” said Iaciuk Costa Rosa.

The holubtsi bested 32 finalist dishes among 500 recipes that were submitted. It will feature along with 100 selected recipes for an exclusive cookbook. Regional Governor Ratinho Junior also examined the best culinary delights.

The recipes were judged based on criteria reflecting local culture and traditions, including the use of local ingredients, creativity while considering school preferences, and mindful use of products.

Finalists received personalized aprons and a cookbook featuring 100 snack recipes, as well as a masterclass from chef Manu Buffara. The winners were awarded a set of culinary books, a custom dining set by Paraná artist Toto Lopes, and a voucher for a luxurious trip on the Litorina train along the Serra do Mar mountains.

Approximately 80 percent of the country’s Ukrainian community resides in Paraná. And three-quarters of the 50,000 people who live in the city of Prudentópolis are of Ukrainian extraction.