Pierogi

What Are Pierogi?

Pierogi are traditional Eastern European dumplings made from dough filled with a variety of savoury or sweet fillings. Common fillings include mashed potatoes, cheese, meat, or fruit. The dumplings are boiled until they float, and then often pan-fried for a crispy exterior. Pierogi are typically served with toppings like sour cream, fried onions, or butter and can be enjoyed as an appetiser, side dish, or main meal. They also freeze well, making them great for meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 tbsp sour cream

• 1 cup milk

• 2 eggs

• 3 ½ cups plain flour

• 2 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 3 large potatoes

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• salt to taste

For Serving

• 2 large onions (1 lb)

• Butter

• Sour cream

• Chives or Dill

Instructions

Potato Filling

1. Cook the potatoes in salted water until easily pierced with a fork. Drain and mash the potatoes with the warm milk and butter.

   
   

Pierogi Dough

1. Whisk the eggs, sour cream, and milk together until smooth.

2. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until fully combined.

3. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer (using the dough hook) until smooth and elastic. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.

   
   

Making the Pierogi

1. Roll the dough out on a well-floured surface. Use a cookie cutter to cut circles.

2. Spoon a small amount of filling into the centre of each dough circle. Using a piping bag will make this process quicker and neater.

3. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside.

4. Place the formed pierogi on a floured surface. You can freeze them at this point if desired.

   
   

Cooking the Pierogi

1. Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil. Pierogi typically take around 10-15 minutes to cook once added to boiling water. Once they rise, let them cook for an additional 2-4 minutes to ensure the filling is hot throughout and the dough fully cooked. Do not over cook otherwise the pierogi will burst open.

2. Fry the onions until golden brown and crisp.

   
   

Serve the Pierogi

1. Serve the pierogi with butter, sour cream, and chopped chives.