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Delicate dough envelops creamy mashed potatoes with caramelized onions in these iconic half-moon Ukrainian dumplings. Folded by hand and pinched at the edges with practiced precision, each varenyky is a small masterpiece. Boiled until they float to the surface, they're topped with cooling dollops of tangy sour cream. This dish appears on tables during holidays and everyday celebrations throughout Ukraine.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Make a well in the center and add the egg and water.
Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
In a large pot, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain and mash the potatoes until smooth.
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until golden brown.
Add the sautéed onions to the mashed potatoes, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thickness.
Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter.
Place a small spoonful of the potato filling in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
Press the edges together firmly to seal, and crimp the edges with a fork or pinch them decoratively.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Carefully add the varenyky to the boiling water in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
Cook the varenyky until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the varenyky from the pot and transfer them to a serving dish.
Serve the varenyky hot, with a dollop of sour cream on the side. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
Varenyky are Ukrainian dumplings made with tender dough folded around savory potato and onion filling or cheese. They're boiled and served with cooling sour cream.
Varenyky is a traditional Ukrainian dish with centuries of history. It remains a cornerstone of Ukrainian cuisine, served at celebrations and family dinners.
The dough uses all-purpose flour, eggs, water, and salt. Fillings typically combine mashed potatoes with caramelized onions, though cheese or fruit variations exist.
Work quickly to prevent drying, seal edges firmly with a fork or fingers, and boil in salted water until they float plus one minute more. Keep finished dumplings warm.
Varenyky are traditionally topped with sour cream and caramelized onions. Also serve with melted butter, fresh dill, or crispy bacon bits.