Blinis are a very ancient food linked to the Slavic peoples since pre-Christian times. They consist of a type of small pancakes made with egg, milk and flour. Blinis are associated with the week-long pagan festival dedicated to the sun Maslenitsa, which celebrated the end of winter and the beginning of spring. It is said that during that week blini was the main food. They were also associated with the sun because of their circular shape and golden color.