Pelmeni: Russian Meat Dumplings Boiled in Butter
Pelmeni
Delicious traditional Russian dumplings filled with seasoned meat, boiled, then buttered for extra richness.
Pelmeni are a beloved Russian comfort food, small dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, onion, and spices. Once boiled to tender perfection, they are generously buttered and often served with sour cream or fresh herbs, creating a cozy, satisfying meal.
Making pelmeni at home is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with warm, fragrant aromas. They’re perfect for cold nights or when you want to indulge in something hearty and homemade.
Nutrition (per serving)
Directions
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1
Mix flour and a pinch of salt on a work surface. Make a well in the center, add eggs and water, and knead until smooth dough. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
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2
In a bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the filling.
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3
Roll out the dough thinly on a floured surface. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out small circles about 2 inches in diameter.
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4
Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold in half and pinch edges tightly to seal, forming a half-moon shape, then bring the two corners together to make a small round dumpling.
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5
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop pelmeni in batches, and cook until they float to the surface, about 3-4 minutes.
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6
Remove with a slotted spoon, melt butter, and toss pelmeni in butter. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour:2 1/2 cups
- Eggs:2 large
- Water:1/2 cup
- Salt:1 tsp
- Ground beef or pork:1 lb
- Onion, finely chopped:1
- Salt and pepper to taste:to taste
- Butter:4 tbsp
- Fresh herbs (dill or parsley):2 tbsp
Tips & Notes
- Ensure the dough is rolled out thin for tender pelmeni.
- You can freeze leftover pelmeni on a tray, then transfer to a bag for later cooking.
