Varenyky, also known as Pierogi, are traditional Eastern European dumplings filled with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, cabbage, mushrooms, or meat. They can be boiled or fried, serving as a versatile dish for any occasion. With roots tracing back centuries, varenyky reflects the rich culinary heritage of regions like Ukraine and Poland, evolving over time to include various fillings and cooking methods.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or farmer's cheese work well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For serving:
- Sour cream
- Chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Method:
1. 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.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing the mashed potatoes, grated cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut out circles of dough.
5. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges to seal.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the varenyky in batches into the boiling water and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove the varenyky with a slotted spoon and drain well.
8. Serve hot with sour cream and chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Enjoy your homemade varenyky!
Nutrition Value:
1. All-purpose flour (2 cups):
- Calories: Approximately 800 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 176 grams
- Protein: Approximately 20 grams
- Fat: Approximately 2 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: Approximately 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of various B vitamins (e.g., thiamin, riboflavin, niacin)
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron, magnesium, and zinc
- Nutritional benefits: Provides energy from carbohydrates and some protein, but low in fat. Contains small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals.
2. Large egg (1 egg):
- Calories: Approximately 70 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.6 grams
- Protein: Approximately 6 grams
- Fat: Approximately 5 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 70 milligrams
- Cholesterol: Approximately 186 milligrams
- Vitamins: High in vitamin A, D, E, and B12, as well as riboflavin and folate
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium, iron, potassium, and phosphorus
- Nutritional benefits: High-quality protein source, rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Provides healthy fats.
3. Water (1/2 cup):
- Calories: 0 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefits: Essential for hydration and proper bodily function.
4. Salt (1/2 teaspoon):
- Calories: 0 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1,150 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: Contains sodium
- Nutritional benefits: Adds flavor to the dish but should be consumed in moderation due to high sodium content.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand and preparation method.
For the filling:
1. Mashed Potatoes (2 cups):
- Calories: Approximately 230 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 53 grams
- Protein: Approximately 5 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0.4 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 20 milligrams
- Cholesterol: Approximately 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: High in vitamin C, B6, and potassium
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron and magnesium
- Nutritional benefits: Good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Provides energy and supports immune function.
2. Grated Cheese (1 cup, cheddar or farmer's cheese):
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 4 grams
- Protein: Approximately 28 grams
- Fat: Approximately 36 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 700 milligrams
- Cholesterol: Approximately 110 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, B12, and riboflavin
- Minerals: Contains calcium and phosphorus
- Nutritional benefits: Rich in protein and calcium, but high in fat and calories. Provides essential vitamins and minerals for bone health and muscle function.
3. Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Salt: Provides sodium, which is essential for electrolyte balance and nerve function, but should be consumed in moderation.
- Pepper: Contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K and manganese. Adds flavor without additional calories.
Both mashed potatoes and cheese contribute to the overall energy content of the dish, while also providing essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially for ingredients high in fat and calories like cheese.
For serving:
1. Sour Cream (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: Approximately 23 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1 gram
- Protein: Approximately 0.3 grams
- Fat: Approximately 2 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 6 milligrams
- Cholesterol: Approximately 7 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and riboflavin
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium
- Nutritional benefits: Adds creaminess and tanginess to the dish. Contains some essential vitamins and minerals, but should be consumed in moderation due to its fat content.
2. Chopped Chives or Green Onions (optional, 1 tablespoon):
- Calories: Approximately 1 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.1 gram
- Protein: Approximately 0.1 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1 milligram
- Cholesterol: Approximately 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium, potassium, and magnesium
- Nutritional benefits: Adds flavor and a pop of color to the dish. Contains vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K which is important for blood clotting and bone health.
Both sour cream and chopped chives or green onions are optional toppings that enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish. While sour cream adds creaminess and richness, chives or green onions contribute freshness and a subtle onion flavor.
Chef Culinary Creationss
Comments