Pelmeni

Introduction

Pelmeni are a type of dumpling that hail from Russia. They have a rich history, dating back to the indigenous Siberian and Ural populations. Traditionally filled with a mixture of meats, pelmeni were often prepared in large batches and frozen outdoors, making them a staple during the long, harsh winters. This method of food preservation and preparation was ideal for the nomadic groups of those regions.

Over time, pelmeni became a beloved dish across Russia and have found their way into the cuisines of many other countries. They can be served as a simple meal seasoned with butter and sour cream, or as a part of a hearty soup. This recipe will guide you through the steps of making traditional pelmeni from scratch.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 3 cups
• Egg - 1, beaten
• Water - 1 cup
• Salt - 1 teaspoon, plus more for seasoning
• Ground beef - 1 pound
• Ground pork - 1/2 pound
• Onion, finely chopped - 1
• Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
• Black pepper - to taste
• Butter - for serving
• Sour cream - for serving

Preparation

Making the Dough

1. In a large bowl, sift the all-purpose flour and salt together.
2. Make a well in the center and add the beaten egg and half of the water.
3. Gradually mix the egg and water into the flour, adding more water as needed, until a rough dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. This will ensure proper texture in your pelmeni.
5. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
3. Cover the filling mixture and refrigerate while you roll out the dough.

Shaping the Pelmeni

Rolling out the Dough

1. Divide the rested dough into four pieces for easier handling.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one piece of dough until it's about 1/8 inch thick. Keep the remaining dough covered to prevent drying out.

Filling and Folding

1. Using a round cutter or the rim of a glass, cut circles from the rolled-out dough, each about 2-3 inches in diameter.
2. Place a teaspoon of the meat filling in the center of each circle.
3. Fold each circle in half to create a semi-circle, pressing the edges together to seal. Ensure there are no air pockets and the edges are tightly sealed.
4. Bring the two corners of the semi-circle together and pinch to form a dumpling shape, characteristic of traditional pelmeni.

Cooking the Pelmeni

Boiling

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. Timing is crucial, so consider setting a cooking timer for the perfect cooking time.
2. Add the pelmeni in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and let them boil until they float to the surface, about 4-6 minutes.
3. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked pelmeni and transfer them to a serving dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pelmeni are best enjoyed hot, served with a generous dollop of butter and a side of sour cream for dipping. They can also be accompanied by vinegar or sprinkled with fresh dill for added flavor. For a traditional Russian experience, pair your pelmeni with a warming shot of vodka or a side of comforting broth.

Conclusion

Making pelmeni from scratch provides both a rewarding experience and a delicious meal that captures the heart of Russian culinary tradition. Whether you're enjoying these dumplings as a main course or a festive treat, they offer a taste of history and heritage in each bite.