Korovai

Korovai is a traditional wedding bread that is also popular in countries such as Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, and Russia. Instead of a cake, Ukrainians bake this massive, lavishly decorated bread that is often made by seven married women from seven different places. Participation of widows in the bread-making process is forbidden, since it is believed that a piece of their fate will be forwarded to the prospective couple. There are many superstitions and rituals connected to korovai – for example, if the bread cracks in the oven, the marriage will be doomed. After the wedding ceremony, korovai is cut and shared among guests.