Ukrainian Borscht as a Signifier of National Identity: Between Tradition and Modernity

This article explores Ukrainian borscht as a symbol of ethnic identity, analyzing how its gastronomic characteristics shape and reflect the ethnocultural psyche of Ukrainians. The discourse goes beyond the culinary aspect to highlight how borscht serves as a metaphor for broader cultural, spiritual, and social dimensions, thus emphasizing its continuing role in preserving and affirming Ukrainian well-being traditions. Drawing on cultural anthropology, ethnopsychology, and resilience theory, the study explores the relationship between cultural values measured by the Schwartz Values Survey and subjective perceptions of borscht using the semantic differential method. The results show that Ukrainians, who favor values such as belonging and equality, view borscht as a unifying element that strengthens community ties, positive emotions, and national cohesion. These findings also emphasize the metaphorical significance of borscht as a cultural artifact and a means of mnemonic security, protecting national identity from external narratives and building resilience.