Ural Spicy Pelmeni

Pelmeni are a traditional Russian dumpling that originated in Ural, a region celebrated for its rich cultural diversity. These delicious dumplings are a culinary emblem of comfort food, often enjoyed by families for generations. This particular recipe offers a spicy twist to the classic, perfectly suited for those who relish bold flavors. The beauty of pelmeni lies in their versatility, with a filling that can be customized to taste and a dough that delivers a tender bite. Whether served in a warm broth or pan-fried to a golden crisp, pelmeni make for a satisfying meal any time of year.

Ingredients

• Flour - 500 grams
• Water - 200 ml
• Egg - 1 large
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Ground Pork - 250 grams
• Ground Beef - 250 grams
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Cayenne Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Cumin - 1/2 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Butter - for serving
• Sour Cream - for serving
• Parsley - freshly chopped, for garnish

Preparation

Making the Dough

To begin, in a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add one egg lightly beaten with water. Stir the mixture with a spoon until a rough dough forms. Then, continue kneading with your hands for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, onion, and garlic. Season the mixture with cayenne pepper, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and a splash of vinegar. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Assembling the Pelmeni

Once rested, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it's very thin. Using a round cutter, cut out circles from the dough. Place a small teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle. Carefully fold dough over the filling to form a semicircle and press the edges to seal tightly to prevent spilling during cooking. For a more authentic touch, pinch the two ends together creating a tortellini-like shape.

Cooking

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the pelmeni to the boiling water and reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until they float to the top, indicating they are ready. For a crispy variation, you can also pan-fry boiled pelmeni in butter until golden brown. Refer to our cooking timer for precise timing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spicy pelmeni hot, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of parsley for freshness. These dumplings pair beautifully with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple salad to balance the spice. Enjoy alongside a warm cup of broth for an authentic Russian dining experience.