Thin Russian pancakes similar to crêpes, traditionally made with buckwheat flour and often served with caviar, sour cream, or sweet toppings.
From Russian 'bliny' (plural), related to Old Church Slavonic 'mlinŭ' meaning 'mill' or 'ground grain.' The round shape symbolized the sun in Slavic pagan traditions, making them important for Maslenitsa (Butter Week) celebrations.
Blini were originally sacred food in pre-Christian Russia, eaten during Maslenitsa to celebrate the end of winter because their round, golden shape represented the returning sun! The tradition was so deeply rooted that the Orthodox Church incorporated it into their calendar rather than trying to eliminate it.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.