Classic Varenyky Pierogi Recipe

2022-10-31

By Ukrainian Recipes

Ukrainian Cuisine

Main Course

Learn how to make traditional Ukrainian varenyky pierogi with this easy recipe. 

Fillings for Ukranian Dumplings

These small dumplings are typically filled with mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, or various meats and vegetables,make a delicious main course or side dish..

How to Avoid Frying Pierogi?

They can be boiled, fried, or baked or another simple way to cook the is to bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the pierogi, and cook until they float to the surface, usually about 3-4 minutes. 

Dipping Ideas for Pierogi

Varenyky Pierogi can be enjoyed with a variety of sauces, such as smetana, sour cream, bacon grease, caramelized onions, creamy mushroom sauce, and dill sauce for a range of flavors.

Pierogi: A Comforting and Delicious Dumpling With Roots in Eastern Europe

Ukranian Christmas and Easter Speciality

Ukranian dumplings are traditionally homemade for holidays like Christmas and Easter. Their Ukrainian origin dates back centuries, making them a popular dish in central and eastern Ukraine.

Beyond the Borders

Varenyky have been influenced by Tatar and Polish cuisine. Today, they are popular not just in Ukraine but also in countries with Ukrainian communities, often found at Ukrainian festivals worldwide.

Pitfalls on Varenyky Pierogi

 Making the dough: Making the dough for Varenyky Pierogi requires a good eye for detail. The dough should be pliable, but not too sticky, and as thin as possible without tearing. Be sure to give the dough adequate resting time to allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.

 Shaping the Pierogi: Shaping the Varenyky Pierogi can be challenging, as it requires careful attention to detail. Avoid overfilling the Pierogi, as this can cause them to burst during cooking. Ensure that each Pierogi is well sealed, as any open ends will cause the filling to spill out.

 Choosing the filling: The filling for the Pierogi is the star of the dish, and there are countless variations to choose from. However, not all fillings are created equal, and some may become too dry or too watery during cooking. Experiment with different fillings to see which ones are the best fit for you.

 Cooking the Pierogi: Cooking the Varenyky Pierogi properly requires a bit of skill. Boiling them for too long can cause the dough to become tough and rubbery, while undercooking can result in soggy Pierogi. Keep an eye on the Pierogi while they cook and remove them from the water as soon as they float to the surface.

 Serving the Pierogi: Varenyky Pierogi are traditionally served with sour cream, fried onions, and bacon bits. Be sure to give each Pierogi a generous dollop of sour cream, and garnish with the onions and bacon bits for added flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 egg

• 3/4 cup warm water

For the filling:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 3 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough by combining the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the egg and warm water, and mix well. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

2. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 15 minutes.

3. Prepare the filling by mixing together the mashed potatoes, finely chopped onion, grated cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper.

4. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.

5. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or a glass. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.

6. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the varenyky pierogi, a few at a time, and boil for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

8. Remove the varenyky pierogi from the pot with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate.

9. Melt the butter in a saucepan and pour over the varenyky pierogi. Serve hot.

10. Enjoy your delicious homemade varenyky pierogi!

Preparation Time: 30 min

Cook Time: 40 min

Total Time: 70 min

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350

Fat: 13 g

Saturated Fat: 7 g

Carbohydrates: 49 g

Fiber: 3 g

Sugar: 2 g

Protein: 10 g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Varenyky Pierogi

Hutsul-style Varenyky: Known as "Hutsulske Varenyky", this version includes a filling of mashed potatoes, finely chopped onions, and mushrooms sautéed in butter. It is typically served with a dollop of sour cream and sautéed onions.

Podillia-style Varenyky: Called "Podilski Varenyky", this version includes a filling of cottage cheese, boiled and mashed potatoes, and finely chopped dill. It is typically served with sour cream and a side of sautéed onions and mushrooms.

Ukrainian-style Varenyky: Known as "Ukrainski Varenyky", this version includes a filling of mashed potatoes and finely chopped onions, but also includes bits of cooked bacon or ham for added flavor. It is typically served with a dollop of sour cream and sautéed onions.

Volyn-style Varenyky: Called "Volynske Varenyky", this version includes a filling of mashed potatoes, grated parsnips, and finely chopped onions. It is typically served with a side of sour cream and sautéed mushrooms.

Poltava-style Varenyky: Known as "Poltavski Varenyky", this version includes a filling of mashed potatoes, grated hard-boiled egg, and finely chopped parsley. It is typically served with sour cream and a side of sautéed onions and mushrooms.

Transcarpathian-style Varenyky: Called "Zakarpatski Varenyky", this version includes a filling of cottage cheese, poppy seeds, and finely chopped apricots or cherries. It is typically served with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkling of powdered sugar.

Polissya-style Varenyky: Known as "Polisski Varenyky", this version includes a filling of mashed potatoes and finely chopped onions, but also includes a bit of sautéed cabbage and shredded carrots. It is typically served with a side of sour cream and a cucumber and tomato salad.

Try this easy recipe for traditional Ukrainian varenyky pierogi and enjoy it as a main course or side dish! Share your delicious dish on your socials with the following hashtags #varenyky #pierogi #Ukrainiancuisine #traditionalrecipe #Ukrainianfood #dumplings #mashedpotatoes #cheddarcheese