Cibureki Dumplings

Cibureki dumplings are a delightful and flavorful dish that combines thinly rolled dough with a savory meat filling. Originating from Eastern Europe, these deep-fried treats are known for their crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy interior. The dough is made with flour, egg, kefir, and a blend of spices and herbs like dill, giving it a distinct taste that complements the rich meat filling. The filling consists of minced meat, onions, garlic, and seasonings, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. Easy to prepare, these dumplings can be enjoyed as a main course or a satisfying snack. The best part is that they're delightful whether served hot or cold, making them perfect for gatherings or picnics. With a quick preparation time, you can easily customize the fillings to cater to your preferences. Read on to learn how to make this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• For the Dough:

  • 250 g flour
  • 1 egg
  • 150 ml kefir
  • Salt to taste
  • Preferred spices
  • Dill and other herbs to taste

• For the Filling:

  • 400-500 g minced meat
  • 70-80 g onion
  • Garlic to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Salt to taste

Preparation Time

• Total: 30 minutes (Preparation: 15 minutes, Cooking: 15 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 250 g of flour with a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center and add 1 egg and 150 ml of kefir. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough until it's smooth and no longer sticky, incorporating any spices or herbs as desired. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Make the Filling: Finely chop the onion and combine it with the minced meat in a separate bowl. Add crushed garlic, salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like. Mix thoroughly so that the flavors are well distributed. Add a small amount of water if needed to keep the mixture moist and juicy.

3. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each one into a thin circle, roughly 14 cm in diameter. Ensure the dough is not too thick to achieve a crispy finish upon frying.

4. Assemble the Dumplings: Place about one and a half tablespoons of the filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for an appealing finish.

5. Cooking the Dumplings: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the dumplings into the oil. Fry until both sides are golden brown and crisp. For a deep-fried alternative, use more oil and immerse the dumplings completely. Adjust the heat to ensure even cooking.

6. Draining: Remove the cooked dumplings and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

7. Serving: Serve the cibureki dumplings hot for a crisp exterior or let them cool to room temperature. They’re delicious at any temperature.

Tips

• Dough Handling: Ensure your dough is not too sticky or too dry; adjust with flour or kefir accordingly.
• Filling Variations: Try using mushrooms or cheese as an alternative filling for a vegetarian option.
• Cooking Method: If you're looking for a healthier version, consider baking the dumplings instead of frying.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 12 g
• Fats: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g

Variations

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Cheese Addition: Add some grated cheese to the filling for extra richness.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute meat with finely chopped vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or pickles to balance the rich flavors.
• Serve with sour cream or a spicy tomato sauce as a dip.

Best Places

• Retro Cibureki House - Known for authentic cibureki with a modern twist. Location: 123 Food St, Tallinn, Estonia.
• Grandma’s Heirloom Kitchen - Offers a homey feel with traditional recipes. Location: 456 Gourmet Ln, Riga, Latvia.
• Crispy Bites Café - Famous for its selection of Eastern European street foods. Location: 789 Market Rd, Warsaw, Poland.
• Taste of Traditions - A cozy spot with a focus on local cuisine. Location: 101 Heritage Ave, Vilnius, Lithuania.
• Dumpling Delight - A fusion place that combines unique flavors from around the world. Location: 202 Culinary Ct, Prague, Czech Republic.
• Epic Eats - Known for its variety and attention to traditional preparation methods. Location: 303 Delight Dr, Budapest, Hungary.
• Old World Kitchen - Offers a rustic ambiance with delicious traditional dishes. Location: 404 Retro Blvd, Minsk, Belarus.
• Heritage Hearth - Specializes in both classic and modern variations of cibureki. Location: 505 Classic Cir, Kiev, Ukraine.
• Spice and Dough - Brings a diverse menu inspired by Eastern European flavors. Location: 606 Spice St, Moscow, Russia.
• Eastern Bites - Celebrated for its authentic recipes passed down through generations. Location: 707 Snack St, Sofia, Bulgaria.