Traditional Russian Pelmeni

Name: Traditional Russian Pelmeni
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup water (room temperature); 1 large egg (beaten); 250 grams ground beef; 250 grams ground pork; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup water

55 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Delight in the savoury taste of authentic Russian pelmeni, filled with seasoned meat and wrapped in tender dough.

Prep

45 min

Cook

10 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Russian pelmeni are small dumplings filled with seasoned meat, a beloved staple in Russian cuisine. Encased in a simple yet tender dough, these dumplings are perfect for a hearty meal on a cold day. This version of pelmeni stays true to its roots, offering a savoury experience that captures the essence of Russian home cooking. Whether you're new to making dumplings or looking to explore Russian cuisine, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. The combination of ground beef and pork creates a juicy filling, while the dough, made from scratch, provides the perfect bite. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends, these dumplings are sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in water and beaten egg. Mix until a dough forms.

Pro tip: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Rest the dough

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Resting helps the dough to become more pliable.

Make the filling

In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and water. Mix until well combined.

Pro tip: Adding water to the filling helps keep it juicy.

Roll out the dough

Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece into a thin sheet, about 2mm thick.

Pro tip: Use plenty of flour to prevent sticking.

Shape the pelmeni

Cut dough into circles using a 7cm cutter. Place a teaspoon of filling in the centre of each circle. Fold over and seal edges tightly.

Pro tip: Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.

Boil the pelmeni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pelmeni in batches and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the top.

Pro tip: Avoid overcrowding the pot to prevent dumplings from sticking together.

Serve

Remove with a slotted spoon and serve hot with butter or sour cream.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh dill for extra flavour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Make sure the dough is not too sticky; add flour if needed.
Freeze pelmeni on a tray before storing in a bag to prevent sticking.
Cook in small batches to maintain water temperature and avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Russian pelmeni?

Russian pelmeni are dumplings filled with seasoned meat, popular in Russian cuisine.

How do you make Russian pelmeni?

To make pelmeni, prepare dough, fill with seasoned meat, shape, and boil until they float.

Can pelmeni be frozen?

Yes, freeze pelmeni in a single layer before storing in a bag. Boil directly from frozen.

How long does it take to cook pelmeni?

Pelmeni cook in about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

What do you serve with pelmeni?

Serve pelmeni with sour cream or melted butter. They pair well with salads or borscht.

What is the best way to store pelmeni?

Store uncooked pelmeni in the freezer for up to three months. Cooked pelmeni can be refrigerated for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your pelmeni hot, drizzled with melted butter or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. These dumplings pair wonderfully with a simple salad or a bowl of borscht. Pelmeni can be made ahead and frozen for up to three months. To store, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a resealable bag. When ready to cook, boil them directly from frozen.

Nutrition per serving

290

Calories

15g

Protein

10g

Fat

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