The archaeologist named the dish that is considered traditionally Nizhny Novgorod.

      August 15, 2026 11:58 Culture and Leisure The traditional dish of Nizhny Novgorod can be considered the Podnovye cucumbers. This was reported by the head of the archaeology sector of the Nizhny Novgorod Historical and Architectural Museum-Reserve, Anastasia Shvetsova, in an interview with "Living in Nizhny."

      Once, cucumbers from the village of Podnovye were known throughout Russia. Local housewives pickled them in pumpkins, using a special brine. Only small cucumbers were used for preservation—this is why they turned out especially crispy.

      "Since the 18th century, they were supplied to the imperial table," the archaeologist said.

      Podnovye cucumbers, as Shvetsova notes, were loved by Prince Grigory Potemkin-Tauride, the favorite of Catherine II, and the famous Nizhny Novgorod inventor Ivan Kulibin. The archaeologist also spoke about another important feature of the traditional diet of Nizhny Novgorod residents. People living by the water have long consumed a lot of fish. This is confirmed by findings in the cultural layers of the city.

      Since the founding of Nizhny Novgorod, archaeologists have found numerous fish bones there. Among them are remains of sturgeon, pike, beluga, and zander.

      It was previously reported that historians found no evidence of the existence of a Bulgar city at the site of Nizhny Novgorod. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and operational information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod." When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+