Homemade Pelmeni Delight

Pelmeni are delightful dumplings that bring comfort and warmth with every bite. Made with a soft and elastic dough, they are filled with a savory filling, often consisting of potatoes and onions. The preparation involves rolling out the thin dough, filling it generously, and boiling until tender. These dumplings shine both when fresh and when reheated, carrying flavors that are uniquely satisfying. The dish is often served with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dollop of butter. Although pelmeni are a treat on their own, they can pair well with light salads or broth-based soups. Each bite is a harmony of textures, from the delicate dough to the rich filling inside. This recipe guides you through the traditional method of making pelmeni at home, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, these dumplings promise to be a hit on any table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 Egg
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Sour Cream
• 2 tablespoons Oil
• 1/2 cup Water
• Flour - As needed, to create an elastic dough that doesn't stick

Filling

• 800g Potatoes - Boiled and mashed
• 2 large or 4 small Onions - Finely chopped and browned in oil
• 2 tablespoons Sour Cream

Cooking and Garnish

• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Butter or Oil
• Chopped Dill

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 120 minutes (includes prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the egg, salt, sugar, sour cream, and oil. Mix well, then add the water.

2. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add flour to the liquid mixture. Start with a cup, then add spoonfuls as needed. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, no longer sticking to your hands or the table.

3. Kneading Tips: If the dough begins to stick during kneading, rinse your hands and continue with clean hands to prevent overflouring.

4. Elasticity Check: The dough is ready when it stretches without tearing when picked up.

5. Rest the Dough: Place the dough in a bag and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. It will become slightly sticky, which is normal. It will become easier to handle once uncovered.

6. Roll the Dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into thin sheets. Aim for a thickness that allows light to shine through.

7. Cut the Circles: Using a glass, cut out rounds from the dough.

8. Prepare the Filling: Boil the potatoes, mash them, and mix in browned onions and sour cream.

9. Fill the Dumplings: Place a generous amount of filling onto each dough circle.

10. Seal with Care: The dough's elasticity helps seal even when filled generously. Pinch the edges tightly.

11. Cooking Preparation: Boil a large pot of water with salt and butter or oil.

12. Cook the Pelmeni: Once boiling, add the pelmeni. Cook them for 2 minutes from the point they float to the surface.

13. Flavor with Herbs: In a bowl, add chopped dill and a knob of butter.

14. Transfer Cooked Pelmeni: Place the boiled dumplings into the dill and butter mixture, gently tossing.

15. Serve Warm or Cold: Enjoy the pelmeni warm. They maintain their delightful flavor even when served cold.

16. Refrain from Extras: These dumplings have a richness that doesn’t require additional sour cream when eating.

17. Final Touches: A slight gloss from butter and fresh dill highlight their flavor perfectly.

18. A Feast for Many: Expect around 60 dumplings, comparable to store-bought sizes.

19. Efficient Preparation Time: The process is efficient, comparable to preparing any regular lunch.

20. Enjoy the Classic Flavor: Delight in the homemade splendor of this iconic dish.

Tips

• Avoid Overcooking: Ensure not to overboil the pelmeni as this can cause them to split.
• Temperature Balance: Dough tends to be easier to handle at room temperature, avoid chilling it.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container and enjoy cold or reheated.

Nutritions

• Approximate per Serving (5 pieces): Calories 250, Protein 5g, Fats 8g, Carbs 40g.

Variations

• Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Use vegetable fillings like mushrooms and cabbage for a vegetarian take.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light tomato and cucumber salad.
• Offer a side of clear broth for a complete meal.
• Garnish with freshly cracked pepper for added zest.

Best Places

• Pelmeni Pelmeni - Famous for its rich flavors and authentic taste. Location: 25 Nevsky Ave, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
• Kachka - Known for bringing a modern twist to traditional dumplings. Location: 960 SE 11th Ave, Portland, USA.
• Dumpling Galaxy - Offers a celestial culinary experience. Location: 42-35 Main St, Queens, USA.
• Lido - A celebrated spot for hearty fillings and classic recipes. Location: Elizabetes iela 65, Riga, Latvia.
• Victor's Restaurant - An iconic eatery for comforting pelmeni in a vibrant setting. Location: Mariánské nám. 5, Prague, Czech Republic.
• Crimson Cafe - A place where traditional meets contemporary dining. Location: 50 Gorodetskogo, Kyiv, Ukraine.
• Varvar - Known for inventive interpretations of classic dishes. Location: 43 Mechnikova St, Kiev, Ukraine.
• Café Pushkin - Offers a luxurious take on Russian culinary traditions. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, 26А, Moscow, Russia.
• Pierogi & Pelmeni - Offers an eclectic mix of Eastern European delights. Location: 1017 Bushwick Ave, Brooklyn, USA.
• Babuszka - Known for high-quality ingredients and authentic preparation. Location: 18 Rue Monsieur le Prince, Paris, France.