Varenyky (Potato and Cheese Dumplings)
Varenyky, a traditional Ukrainian dish, have become a staple in many households for their delicious flavor and heartiness. Made with boiled potatoes and cheese filling, these dumplings are a crowd-pleaser that will have you going back for seconds. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream and chopped onions for the ultimate Varenyky experience.
**Ingredients:**
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup warm water
- 1 egg (optional)
For the Potato and Cheese Filling:
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup farmer's cheese (or a similar soft cheese)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Sour cream or melted butter, for serving
**Instructions:**
**Making the Dough:**
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. If desired, add an egg to the warm water and whisk it.
3. Slowly pour the warm water (or egg mixture) into the flour, stirring continuously, until the mixture forms a dough.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it's smooth and elastic. Cover it and let it rest for 30 minutes.
**Preparing the Potato and Cheese Filling:**
1. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until they are soft and easily mashed.
2. Drain the potatoes and mash them while they are still hot.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the finely chopped onion in butter until it becomes soft and slightly golden.
4. Mix the sautéed onions, mashed potatoes, and farmer's cheese together. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
**Assembling the Varenyky:**
1. Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
3. Place a small spoonful of the potato and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle.
4. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing them together.
**Cooking the Varenyky:**
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Carefully add the varenyky to the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove the cooked varenyky with a slotted spoon and drain them.
**Serving the Varenyky:**
1. Serve the varenyky hot, with a drizzle of melted butter or sour cream on top.
2. You can also sauté the cooked varenyky in butter until they become slightly crispy for extra flavor.
Varenyky are a cherished Ukrainian dish, often served at celebrations and family gatherings. They can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, and they are a true Ukrainian comfort food.