Russian cuisine is distinctive and unique, and like any other national one, it was formed under the influence of different environmental, social, geographical, economic, and historical factors. The main feature of Russian cuisine is considered to be an abundance and variety of products used for cooking. There are numerous dishes made of dough such as pies, cakes, rolls, blini, etc. as well as unleavened dough, including dumplings and homemade noodles. Being a country of Orthodox Christian religion which implies numerous fasts, Russian cuisine offers a great number of vegetarian dishes including mushrooms, pickles, etc. The Russian culinary palette is also rich in meat, poultry, and fish dishes which are served on various occasions.