Description
Discover the traditional flavors of Russia with this authentic pelmeni recipe. These tender dumplings are filled with savory meat, herbs, and spices, offering a satisfying bite. Perfect for a hearty meal, they’re served with sour cream or your favorite sauces for a delightful cultural experience.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix) or minced fish
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Sour cream, ketchup, mayonnaise, or “ketchunnaise” (a mix of ketchup and mayo)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add water, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- Combine ground meat or fish, chopped onion, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble Pelmeni:
- Roll the dough out thinly on a floured surface. Cut out small circles (use a cookie cutter or glass). Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold the dough over, and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- Cook:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pelmeni and cook until they float to the surface (5-7 minutes). For a crispy version, pan-fry boiled pelmeni in oil until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with sour cream, ketchup, mayonnaise, or a mix of sauces. Garnish with extra dill or parsley if desired.
Notes
- If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it’s pliable.
- To freeze pelmeni, arrange uncooked dumplings on a tray, freeze until firm, then store in a freezer-safe bag.
- For a spicy twist, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling (or pan-frying for variation)
- Cuisine: Russian
