[kee-SUHL] Next to ice cream, Russians claim kissel as their favorite dessert. It's a sweetened fruit purée thickened with either cornstarch or potato flour, which gives it a soft-custard texture. Kissel can be served hot or cold, usually topped with cream or a custard sauce.

Food Lover's Companion. Copyright © 2001 by Barron's Educational Series, Inc. All rights reserved.