Maslenitsa Festival Returns to St. Petersburg with Healthier Blini Tips
The traditional Russian Maslenitsa festival, also known as Butter Week, is approaching with celebrations planned in St. Petersburg on February 21 and 22. This lively event blends ancient Slavic customs with Orthodox Christian traditions, marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Meanwhile, nutrition experts are offering advice on how to enjoy blini—the festival's signature pancakes—in a healthier way.
Maslenitsa has deep roots in pre-Christian Slavic folklore, where it symbolised fertility and renewal. Over time, it merged with Orthodox Christian practices leading into Lent. Today, the festival features pancake feasts, folk games, and the burning of a winter effigy.
Alexey Nikonov, editor-in-chief of Statsionar-Press, recently shared tips for making blini more nutritious. He recommends replacing some white flour with whole-grain, buckwheat, or oat flour to boost fibre and promote fullness. Using a well-heated pan also cuts down on the oil needed for frying.
For fillings, Nikonov suggests frozen berries instead of jam for sweet blini. Savoury versions should include boiled chicken or turkey, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh herbs to keep the glycemic index low. The ideal batter uses one egg per batch and milk with 1% to 2.5% fat content.
Portion control is key. A healthy adult can safely eat 2-3 blini, while athletes may have 3-4. Children should be limited to 1-2 small pancakes, and those on a weight-loss diet can enjoy up to two—but not daily. Eating blini for breakfast or lunch helps avoid a heavy feeling later in the day.
The Lady Maslenitsa festival in St. Petersburg will bring two days of traditional celebrations. With simple adjustments, blini can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet during the festivities. Experts recommend mindful portions and healthier ingredients to keep the focus on both tradition and well-being.
