Pelmeni, frequently referred to as the heart of Russian cuisine, are delicate dumplings filled with flavorful meat, enveloped in soft, pillowy dough. These little gems represent the coziness of home-cooked meals and are a mainstay in Russian homes. Pelmeni are more than just food; they are a symbol of custom, a link to one’s heritage, and the skill of cooking meals simply but deliciously.
What Does This Recipe Teach You?
You may learn how to make homemade dumplings from scratch with this recipe, which includes building the traditional pelmeni shape and kneading a versatile dough. Additionally, you will learn how to boil the dumplings until they are soft and how to properly season the filling.
What I Adore About This Recipe
Whether it is cooked for a peaceful evening meal or eaten with family, Pelmeni adds coziness to any table. The satisfaction of delivering a dish rich in tradition, combined with the delight of crafting these little pockets of flavor, makes this recipe genuinely unique.
Which Method Is Best for Storing Leftovers?
Pelmeni that aren’t cooked freeze quite well! After arranging them on a pan and freezing them until solid, move them to a bag. When necessary, cook them straight from the freezer. Pelmeni that have been cooked can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days and then slowly warmed up in water or brot
What Should I Serve It With?
Pelmeni tastes great with melted butter, sour cream, or a little fresh dill. Serve them with a warm bowl of borscht, a light salad, or even a side of crusty bread for a heartier meal.
Pelmeni: Irresistibly Succulent!
Description
Pelmeni, the pride of Russian cuisine, are delicate, flavorful dumplings traditionally filled with a mixture of minced meat and onions, wrapped in a tender dough. Often enjoyed during cold winters, these dumplings are boiled until tender and served with sour cream or butter for a comforting, hearty meal. Their origins date back centuries, and today, they remain a cherished dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
For the Dough:
For the Filling:
For Serving:
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
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- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
- Add the egg, water, and milk, and knead the mixture into a smooth, elastic dough.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Filling
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- In a medium bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, grated onion, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Roll and Cut the Dough
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- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick.
- Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut out circles approximately 3 inches in diameter.
Assemble the Pelmeni
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- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal.
- Pinch the two corners of the half-moon together to create the classic pelmeni shape.
Cook the Pelmeni
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- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Drop the pelmeni into the boiling water in batches. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook until the pelmeni float to the surface, then simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve
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- Drain the pelmeni and transfer to a serving dish.
- Serve hot with sour cream or melted butter, garnished with fresh dill if desired.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Sodium 700mg30%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat filling with mashed potatoes or sautéed mushrooms.
- To freeze, arrange uncooked pelmeni on a tray and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer bag and cook directly from frozen.
Journey Of Pelmeni
The history of the popular Russian dumplings known as "pelmeni" is as complex as their folding method. Because of their unusual shape, their name means "ear bread" in the Siberian region, where their story starts. Pelmeni was first developed as a useful food for severe winters since it could be made in big quantities and frozen outside, making it a dependable and durable source of nutrition.
From Siberia to Kitchens Around the World
Pelmeni originated with Siberian hunters who required non-perishable, transportable nourishment for their protracted travels.
These dumplings were small, wholesome, and simple to prepare. They were packed with a mixture of spices and ground beef. Pelmeni spread throughout Russia and beyond over time, changing in preparation and flavor without losing their core characteristics.
The Filling's Significance
Because of the meats' availability in Siberia, pelmeni are typically filled with a mix of ground beef, pork, and occasionally lamb. In addition to improving the flavor, adding onions and a little garlic also serves as a natural preservative. The filling is straightforward but incredibly fulfilling, demonstrating the early Siberians' inventiveness.
Pelmeni in the Present Era
Pelmeni are no longer just found in Russia or Siberia. They are now a comfort meal that is eaten in many different ways all over the world. Vegetarian and even vegan variations of the classic meat fillings, made with cheese, mashed potatoes, or mushrooms, have become popular. Pelmeni, served in stylish restaurants with creative sauces or as traditional comfort food in homes, are a menu staple in sophisticated towns.
Pelmeni's Creation: A Family Matter
Pelmeni-making is frequently a group activity, particularly on festive occasions. Gathering around tables, families shape dumplings, roll out dough, and tell stories. The underlying cultural significance of pelmeni—not just as food, but also as a means of fostering community—is reflected in this communal aspect.
Fun Fact: A Lucky Dumpling
- During preparation, a fun custom is to conceal a penny or a unique filling within one pelmeni.
- A symbol of festivity and good fortune, the dish is thought to bring good fortune to whoever discovers it in the upcoming year.
A Adaptable Recipe for Any Occasion
Despite being eaten with butter or sour cream in the past, contemporary pelmeni frequently have acidic yogurt dips, spicy tomato sauces, or even soy-based dressings, demonstrating their versatility. Pelmeni is incredibly versatile and can be used as a quick and pleasant snack or as a hearty winter supper.
A Tribute to Tradition
Pelmeni serve as a reminder of the power of simplicity—how a few staple components handled with love and custom can produce something truly remarkable. They convey the essence of Siberia, the coziness of home cooking, and the allure of dumplings for everyone. Not only are you consuming a meal when you cook and eat pelmeni, but you are also participating in a tradition that has been carried on for many generations.
I appreciate you coming along on this adventure of learning, customs, and culinary artistry. Savor the pelmeni you cooked yourself!
