Cepelinai Recipe – Lithuania's Hearty Dumplings

Name: Cepelinai
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Lithuania
Ingredients: 300g pork; all purpose flour; beef; egg; for the dumplings; for the filling; for the sauce; onion; pepper; potatoes; salt; sour cream; vegetable oil

Cepelinai are a beloved Lithuanian dish, consisting of large potato dumplings filled with meat. This hearty meal is often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Lithuania. Often served with sour cream, they embody the warmth and comfort of Lithuanian home cooking.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~400 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Dumplings:
6 large potatoes, peeled and grated
1 large egg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Salt to taste
For the Filling:
300g (10.5 oz) ground pork or beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 small onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.

Add the ground pork or beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Potato Dough

Grate the potatoes and place them in a large bowl. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.

Add the egg, flour, and salt to the grated potatoes. Mix well until a dough forms.

Form the Dumplings

Take a portion of the potato dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center, then carefully fold the edges over to seal the filling inside. Shape into an oval or football shape. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

Cook the Dumplings

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the prepared dumplings into the boiling water. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the sour cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Remove the cooked dumplings from the water and drain. Place them on a serving plate and pour the sour cream sauce over the top.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cepelinai?

Cepelinai are large dumplings made primarily from grated potatoes and filled with meat, usually pork or beef.

Where does Cepelinai come from?

Cepelinai originates from Lithuania, where it is considered a national dish.

What are the main ingredients in Cepelinai?

The key ingredients include large potatoes, ground pork or beef, onion, egg, and flour.

How long does Cepelinai take to make?

Cepelinai takes approximately 65-85 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Cepelinai?

Cepelinai is typically served with sour cream, crispy fried onions, or a side of pickled vegetables.

Cepelinai