Russian Cuisine: National Dishes and Goods from Russia / adjika

Not all adjika is created equal. This guide explains the heat levels, styles, and flavor profiles of mild, medium, and hot adjika so you can find your perfect match — whether you're new to Eastern European food or a lifelong fan.

Adjika is a fiery Caucasian chili paste with roots in Abkhazia and western Georgia — not the tomato sauce most grocery-store jars claim it to be. Discover its real history, authentic ingredients, and how it traveled into Russian kitchens.

Adjika is far more than a dipping sauce — this bold Georgian-Caucasian pepper paste elevates grilled meats, soups, eggs, marinades, and dressings. Discover 5 creative ways to cook with adjika, plus an FAQ for American shoppers new to this Eastern European pantry staple.