Kvass

Kvass is a fermented beverage made from black or regular rye bread. The colour of the bread used contributes to the color of the resulting drink. It is classified as a non-alcoholic drink by Russian standards, as the alcohol content from fermentation is typically less than 1.2%. Overall, the alcohol content is low (0.05% - 1.0%). It is often flavored with fruits or herbs such as strawberries, raisins or mint. Kvass is also used for preparing a cold summertime soup called okroshka.

It is popular in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and other Eastern and Central European countries as well as in former Soviet states, such as Kazakhstan and Armenia, where one can see many kvass vendors in the streets. Kvass is also popular in Harbin and Xinjiang, in China, where there is a strong influence of Russian culture.