Description
Authentic Russian Pelmeni are traditional dumplings filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef or pork and onions, encased in a tender homemade dough. This recipe guides you through making the delicate dough, preparing the savory meat filling, forming the dumplings, and cooking them to perfection by boiling. Served hot, pelmeni make a satisfying and comforting meal beloved in Russian cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef or pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs and lukewarm water. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a rough, shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead vigorously for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten and make rolling easier.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Roll Out Dough: Divide the rested dough into four portions. Roll out one portion on a floured surface into a thin sheet while keeping the other dough covered to prevent drying out.
- Cut Circles: Using a round cutter or glass about 2-3 inches in diameter, cut circles from the rolled dough. Place approximately one teaspoon of the meat filling in the center of each circle.
- Seal Dumplings: Fold the dough circles in half over the filling to form half-moon shapes. Pinch the edges firmly and securely to seal completely, ensuring the filling won’t escape during cooking.
- Cook Pelmeni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the pelmeni into the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes or until they float to the top and the dough is tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve hot with sour cream or your preferred condiments.
Notes
- Letting the dough rest is crucial for easier rolling and a tender texture.
- You can use a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor.
- Pelmeni freeze well uncooked; freeze on trays before transferring to bags for future use.
- Serve with butter, sour cream, vinegar, or mustard according to taste.
- If the filling is too loose, chilling it before assembling helps it hold shape better.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Russian
Keywords: Russian pelmeni recipe, traditional dumplings, meat-filled dumplings, homemade pelmeni, Russian cuisine
