Small, but packed with flavor, the batter for these famous Russian pancakes differs from those for traditional pancakes as it is prepared with kefir, a fermented milk product with a slightly sour taste. Aside from kefir, the remaining ingredients for oladyi are typical for any run-of-the-mill pancake – flour, sugar, salt, and eggs.

They are pan-fried into small rounds, similar to American-style pancakes. The pancakes turn golden brown when finished, and they are chewy with crunchy edges. They are slightly sweet and neutral in flavor, while the kefir lends them a mild sour note.

These small, thick pancakes can be served plain or with honey, chocolate, fresh fruit, sour cream, or a variety of fruit preserves. Fresh fruit and chocolate chips are also occasionally added to the batter. Oladyi are a typical breakfast dish, and they are best served hot off the griddle while they are still fluffy and soft in the center and crunchy around the edges.