St. Basil's Cathedral is truly amazing, but looks like it belongs in Disneyland

I’ll admit, my knowledge of Russia is limited, but here it is:  my Sister-In-Law served a mission in Russia, my husband’s Aunt and Uncle also served a mission in Russia.  I have read a little Dostoyevsky and Tolstoy.  I love the music of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff.  I use to pretend to do gymnastics like Nadia Comaneci.  And finally, my Dad once went to Russia with $11 in his pocket- luckily food, transportation, and his room were already paid for.  Now that is a thrifty traveler.

Recently we decided to take a train ride to visit my husband’s Aunt and Uncle who I previously mentioned.  It was a great ride:  beautiful scenery, and interesting people.  On the way there, we lost a game of Rummikub to an inebriated guy dressed up like Jesse James.  On the way home we played games in the lounge with a lovely Amish couple.  But the best part of the vacation- my husband’s Aunt gave me her recipe for Russian Cream.  You lucky readers do not even have to brave the horrific train food to get it.  I don’t know if it is an authentic Russian dessert, but it is yummy, easy and that’s all that matters.

I made the recipe yesterday.  My Dad sampled it and declared it to be the best thing he had ever tasted.  To which my Mom replied, “What about the things I have made that you said were the best thing you had ever tasted?”  He answered, “That was up until now.”  I don’t think that scored him any points.  He may go with out dinner tonight.

Russian Cream

3 cups heavy cream

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 tbsp. plain gelatin

1 cup boiling water

12 oz. sour cream

3 tsp. vanilla

Over medium-low, heat cream and sugar until sugar is dissolved- do not boil.  Set aside.

Dissolve gelatin in 1 cup boiling water.  When dissolved, stir into cream and sugar mixture.  Set aside to cool.  When it is cool, add vanilla and sour cream.  Mix well.

Pour into serving dishes and refrigerate until it is set up.  Top with fresh fruit.

For a party, it is fun to serve in 1 oz. disposable shot glasses.  It makes about 25.

Now Go Have Some Russian Jello Joy Today!