Welcome to the heart of Belarusian cuisine, where every bite tells a tale of rich traditions and culinary mastery. In this gastronomic adventure, we explore the delightful world of Belarusian Kolduny – savory dumplings that have stood the test of time as a beloved dish in Belarus. Bursting with flavors and cultural significance, Kolduny are a testament to the country's culinary heritage and the artistry of its people.

Join us as we unravel the secrets behind crafting these delectable parcels of joy. From the carefully chosen ingredients to the meticulous preparation, Belarusian Kolduny are more than just a meal – they are a celebration of culture, family, and the warmth of shared moments around the dining table.

Prepare to be enchanted by the aroma of freshly made dough, the savory fillings that vary from region to region, and the sheer joy of indulging in a dish that encapsulates the essence of Belarus. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious food enthusiast, this journey into the world of Kolduny promises a culinary experience that transcends borders and invites you to savor the unique flavors of Belarus.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup water

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill)

For Cooking and Serving:

• Butter or vegetable oil
• Sour cream for serving

Instructions:

Dough Preparation:

1-In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg.

2-Gradually add water to the egg while stirring to form a dough.

3-Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest while preparing the filling.

Filling Preparation:

1-Boil the potatoes until tender. Mash them and set aside.

2-In a skillet, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they become translucent.

3-Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

4-Combine the mashed potatoes with the meat mixture. Add fresh herbs if desired. Mix well.

Assembling the Kolduny:

1-Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

2-Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough.

3-Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.

4-Fold the dough in half to encase the filling, forming a semi-circle. Press the edges to seal.

Cooking:

1-Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2-Carefully drop the Kolduny into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface (about 5-7 minutes).

3-Remove the Kolduny with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate.

Serving:

1-In a skillet, melt butter or heat vegetable oil.

2-Lightly fry the boiled Kolduny until they develop a golden color.

3-Serve hot, drizzled with additional melted butter and a side of sour cream.

Enjoy your journey into Belarusian cuisine with these delicious Kolduny, each bite filled with the warmth of tradition and the heartiness of a well-crafted dumpling!

Nutritional Values

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and types of ingredients used, so the following values are approximate and based on common averages:

Nutritional Values for Ingredients:

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

• Calories: 900 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 186g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 1160mg

benefits:

• Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains some protein for muscle repair and maintenance.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 1160mg

benefits:

• Enhances flavor in the recipe.
• Regulates osmotic balance in the body.

Egg (1 egg):

• Calories: 70 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0.6g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 186mg
• Sodium: 70mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• Rich in essential vitamins like B12 and D.
• Provides healthy fats and aids in binding the dough.

Water (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Essential for hydration.
• Helps in forming the dough by providing moisture.

Potatoes (1 lb):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 80g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 30mg

benefits:

• Good source of complex carbohydrates.
• Rich in dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
• Provides essential vitamins like vitamin C and B6.

Ground Meat (1/2 lb):

• Calories: 700 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 60g
• Fat: 50g
• Cholesterol: 225mg
• Sodium: 120mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein for muscle building.
• Supplies essential minerals like iron and zinc.
• Adds richness and flavor to the filling.

Onion (1 medium-sized):

• Calories: 45 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 5mg

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Provides dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Adds flavor and aroma to the filling.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Possesses anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.
• Rich in antioxidants that support immune health.

Butter or Vegetable Oil (amount used for frying):

• Calories: Varies based on the amount used

benefits:

• Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
• Supplies essential fats, especially if using butter.

Sour Cream (for serving, amount used):

• Calories: Varies based on the amount used

benefits:

• Enhances creaminess and adds a tangy flavor.
• Contains probiotics that promote gut health.

Optional: Chopped Fresh Herbs (parsley, dill):

• Calories: Negligible (mostly for flavor)

benefits:

• Adds freshness and herbal flavor to the dish.
• May contain essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Keep in mind that these values are general estimates and may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities used in your recipe.