How to Make Traditional Ukrainian Varenyky: A Comforting and Delicious Dumpling Recipe

Ukrainian cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, with Varenyky being one of the most beloved and iconic dishes of the country. Varenyky is a type of dumpling that is made from unleavened dough and filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. This traditional Ukrainian dish has been enjoyed for generations and continues to be a staple in many households and restaurants throughout the country. So, let’s dive in and discover the delicious world of Ukrainian Varenyky!

Varenyky

Varenyky is a traditional Ukrainian dish that consists of dumplings filled with savory or sweet fillings. The dough is made from flour, eggs, and water, and the fillings can range from potato and cheese to fruit and honey. The dough is rolled out and cut into circles, then filled and sealed before being boiled. Varenyky can be served with a variety of toppings, such as butter, sour cream, and fried onions. This dish is a popular comfort food in Ukraine and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

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Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

For dough

• 250 g flour
• 150 ml water
• 1/2 tsp salt

For filling

• 3 potatoes
• 250 g cottage cheese
• as needed salt/pepper

Instructions

 

• To begin, knead the dough by mixing flour, water, and salt. Once the dough is well combined, cover it with a towel and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  
• While the dough is resting, prepare the filling by boiling potatoes for 13 minutes. Once cooked, mash the potatoes and set aside.
  
• In a separate pan, sauté chopped onions for 1 minute.
  
• Divide the dough into smaller pieces to make it easier to roll out. Roll it out thinly and cut into circles using a glass.
  
• Spoon the potato filling onto each circle of dough and pinch the edges of the dough together to create a sealed dumpling. Repeat until all the dough and filling is used up.
  
• At this point, you can choose to freeze the Varenyky for later use or cook them immediately by boiling them in salted water for 3-5 minutes, until they float to the surface.
  
• Serve hot with toppings such as butter, sour cream, and fried onions. Enjoy your delicious homemade Varenyky!
  

In conclusion, Varenyky is a beloved and iconic dish that has been enjoyed by Ukrainians for generations. This traditional dumpling is versatile, delicious, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making it a staple dish in many households and restaurants throughout Ukraine. With its rich history and cultural significance, Varenyky is more than just a dish; it represents the heart and soul of Ukrainian cuisine.

The history of Varenyky can be traced back to ancient times when it was a popular dish among the nomadic tribes of Central Asia. Over time, it made its way to Ukraine, where it became a staple food of the region. Today, Varenyky is considered a national dish of Ukraine, and it is celebrated every year on the official holiday of Varenyky Day.

Making Varenyky at home is a wonderful way to experience the taste and tradition of Ukrainian cuisine. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe can be easily recreated in any kitchen. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of Varenyky for yourself?