Description
Sweet Polish dumplings called cherry vareniki showcase summer’s ripest fruit nestled in delicate, tender dough. Culinary traditions from Eastern Europe shine through this simple yet elegant dessert that connects generations with each handcrafted bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) lukewarm water
Filling Ingredients:
- 2 cups (340 g) fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
Garnish/Additional Ingredients:
(None specified in the original recipe)
Instructions
- Prepare a flour mixture by combining dry ingredients, then create a central cavity to incorporate egg and lukewarm water, gently mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a lightly dusted surface and methodically knead for 5-7 minutes, developing a smooth, elastic texture. Wrap in plastic and allow to relax at room temperature for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- While dough rests, prepare cherry filling by combining finely chopped cherries with granulated sugar, stirring to distribute sweetness evenly.
- Utilize a rolling pin to transform dough into a thin sheet approximately 1/8 inch thick, ensuring uniform thickness across the surface.
- Employ a circular cutter to precision-cut dough into uniform rounds, creating the base for each vareniki.
- Position a measured portion of cherry mixture at the center of each dough circle, then carefully fold and seal edges, creating a half-moon shape with secure, crimped borders.
- Gently lower vareniki into a pot of gently boiling, salted water, cooking until they gracefully ascend to the surface, typically requiring about 3 minutes of cooking time.
- Remove dumplings with a slotted spoon, allowing excess water to drain, and serve immediately while maintaining optimal warmth and flavor.
Notes
- Use very ripe cherries for maximum sweetness and intense fruit flavor in the filling.
- When kneading dough, add flour gradually to prevent sticking and achieve perfect elasticity.
- Create uniform dumpling sizes by using a consistent round cutter or drinking glass rim.
- For gluten-free option, substitute wheat flour with almond or rice flour blend.
- Seal edges completely to prevent filling from leaking during boiling.
- Drain dumplings immediately after cooking to maintain ideal texture and prevent sogginess.
- Serve with sour cream, honey, or powdered sugar for enhanced taste experience.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 217
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 126 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 31 mg