Food preparation in Italy and the Ukraine?

I have to write a research essay comparing the two.. It's supposed to be pre-19th century Italian Food prep and Modern Day Ukrainian food prep.. and yeah i'm supposed to compare them. Does anyone have any information on them for me? Or could anyone tell me where I could start looking to find some? I've looked a little bit but I don't seem to be having much luck.. i just don't really know where to start. Any help would be much appreciated :) thanks.