Kugelis-Lithuanian Potato Pudding
Kugelis is a hearty Lithuanian potato pudding with crispy bacon, tender onions, and rich butter, perfect for family gatherings or comforting meals with sour cream.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the peeled potatoes to a coarse texture using a food processor or grater.
- Cut the bacon into one-inch lengths and fry until crisp.
- Add chopped onions to the bacon and sauté until translucent.
- Add butter or oleo to the bacon and onion mixture until melted.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Add the bacon and onion mixture to the potato mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 45 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cut into squares and serve hot with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon. You can substitute the oleo with olive oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the grated potatoes to achieve a crispier texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve kugelis hot, topped with a generous dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a protein like roasted chicken or pork. This dish also complements the flavors found in Czech Ham Cabbage And Noodle Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kugelis-Lithuanian Potato Pudding contains roughly 1360 calories, with 22g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (95% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when kugelis is done baking?
Kugelis is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center should be firm but not dry. Keep an eye on it as oven temperatures can vary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).