Pierogis
Pierogis are delicious filled dumplings with savory or sweet fillings, featuring tender dough and hearty flavors, perfect for comfort food lovers and gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together flour, eggs, and milk to make a soft dough. Add 1/4 cup water if needed.
- On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into squares.
- Fill each square with sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, or your favorite cheese, folding as for a turnover.
- Drop the filled dough into boiling water and cook for 15 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon.
- Drain the pierogis.
- Saute onions in butter until golden.
- Add the drained pierogis to the skillet with onions and butter, and heat through until browned.
- Serve topped with shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer dough, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese. You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a tangy flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. When filling the pierogis, try incorporating ingredients like spinach or mushrooms for variety. Remember to seal the edges well to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve pierogis with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for a delightful contrast. They pair wonderfully with sautéed mushrooms or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving with traditional Polish sausage or browse more vegetarian recipes to complement your meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or chives adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pierogis can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pan-fry them in a little butter for a crispy texture or steam them for a softer result. You can also freeze uncooked pierogis, placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer bag once frozen.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pierogis contains roughly 765 calories, with 13g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 564mg per serving (25% 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
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and ensure a tender texture.
What can I use as a filling besides cheese and potatoes?
Besides cheese and potatoes, you can fill pierogis with various ingredients such as sauerkraut, caramelized onions, or even meat mixtures. For a twist, try using seasonal vegetables or a sweet filling like fruit preserves for dessert pierogis.
How do I know when the pierogis are fully cooked?
Pierogis are fully cooked when they float to the surface of the boiling water, usually within 5-10 minutes. To ensure they are thoroughly cooked, you can also taste one. If it's tender and the filling is hot, they are ready to be drained and served.
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).