19 Russian Vareniki Recipe Easy Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
Russian vareniki, also known as pierogi, are a popular dish in Eastern European cuisine. These delicious dumplings are filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings and are typically served with sour cream or melted butter. While the traditional recipe may seem daunting to some, there are easy variations that can be made at home with just a few simple ingredients. Here is a foolproof recipe for Russian vareniki that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Vareniki, also known as pelmeni, are a traditional Russian dish that are typically filled with meat and served with sour cream. However, for those following a vegan diet, there are many delicious variations of this dish that are completely plant-based. One popular option is to fill vareniki with a mixture of mashed potatoes and caramelized onions for a savory and comforting meal.
2of 20
Basic Russian Vareniki or Pelmeni Dough (Russian...
Main Ingredients: Large Egg, Sour Cream, Water, 2 Milk, All Purpose
The dough for vareniki is simple and easy to make, consisting of flour, water, and sometimes eggs. For a vegan version, simply omit the eggs and use water or a plant-based milk as a substitute. The dough is then rolled out and cut into circles, filled with the desired filling, and then pinched closed to form little dumplings. These can be boiled or fried, depending on personal preference.
3of 20
Borscht (Russian-Style Beet Soup)
Main Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Beef Stew Meat, Bay Leaf, Beef Broth
Borscht is a popular Russian soup made with beets, cabbage, and other vegetables. While it traditionally contains beef broth and sometimes meat, a vegan version can easily be made by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat. The result is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for cold winter nights.
4of 20
Russian Buttercream
Main Ingredients: Buttercream, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Unsalted Butter
Buttercream is a classic frosting that is used in many Russian desserts, such as cakes and pastries. A vegan version can be made by using plant-based butter and milk instead of dairy products. This rich and creamy frosting is the perfect complement to any sweet treat.
5of 20
Cabbage Dumplings for Russian-Ukrainian Vareniki with...
Main Ingredients: White Cabbage, Purple Cabbage, Salt, Olive Oil, Brown
Cabbage is a staple in Russian cuisine, and it is often used in vareniki fillings. For a vegan version, try using a mushroom filling, which adds a savory and meaty flavor to the dish. These dumplings can be boiled and served with a drizzle of olive oil or plant-based butter for a delicious and comforting meal.
6of 20
Maria's Russian Beef Stroganoff
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Mrs Dash Seasoning, Pepper, Salt
Beef stroganoff is a classic Russian dish, but it can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based protein such as seitan or tofu in place of the beef. The creamy and flavorful sauce is made with mushrooms, onions, and a combination of plant-based milk and sour cream. Serve over noodles or rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
This simplified version of borscht is perfect for those who want the flavors of the traditional soup without spending too much time in the kitchen. Made with canned beets and other vegetables, this soup comes together quickly and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat.
This classic Russian dessert is made with layers of thin cake and a rich honey buttercream. To make it vegan, simply use plant-based butter and milk in the frosting and use a vegan-friendly honey alternative in the cake layers. The result is a decadent and indulgent dessert that is sure to impress.
9of 20
Nutty Russian
Main Ingredients: Kahlua, Frangelico, Vodka
If you're looking for a twist on the classic White Russian cocktail, try adding a nutty flavor with the addition of hazelnut liqueur. This delicious and creamy drink is perfect for sipping on a chilly evening and can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based creamer instead of dairy cream.
This dish may sound unusual, but it is a popular Russian recipe that combines chicken with apricot preserves for a sweet and savory flavor. To make a vegan version, simply use a plant-based protein such as tofu or seitan in place of the chicken. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
11of 20
Salted Caramel White Russian
Main Ingredients: Kahlua, Caramel Vodka, Half Half, Caramel Sauce
This indulgent cocktail takes the classic White Russian to the next level with the addition of salted caramel syrup. To make it vegan, use a plant-based creamer and substitute the traditional vodka for a vegan-friendly option. It's the perfect drink for a special occasion or as a dessert alternative.
For a twist on the classic Black Russian cocktail, try adding a shot of espresso for an extra kick. This rich and flavorful drink can be made vegan by using a plant-based creamer and a vegan-friendly coffee liqueur. It's the perfect after-dinner drink to enjoy with friends or family.
13of 20
Russian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls "Golubtsy"
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Cabbage, Chopped Onion, Ground Beef, Egg
Cabbage rolls, known as golubtsy in Russian, are a popular dish made with ground meat and rice wrapped in cabbage leaves. For a vegan version, use a plant-based protein and omit the meat. The rolls are baked in a tomato sauce and make for a delicious and comforting meal.
14of 20
Russian Borscht Soup
Main Ingredients: Beetroot, Onion, Carrot, Cabbage, Potato, Garlic
This traditional Russian soup is made with beets, cabbage, and other vegetables in a flavorful broth. To make it vegan, simply use vegetable broth and omit the meat. Serve with a dollop of dairy-free sour cream for a touch of tanginess.
Russian dressing is a popular condiment that is often used on sandwiches and salads. To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based mayonnaise and substitute the Worcestershire sauce for a vegan option. The result is a tangy and creamy dressing that is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your dishes.
This flavorful and hearty dish is made with chicken, onions, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce. To make it vegan, use a plant-based protein in place of the chicken and a combination of plant-based milk and sour cream for the sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
17of 20
Eggnog White Russian
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Coffee Liqueur, Peppermint Schnapps, Eggnog
This festive cocktail combines the flavors of a White Russian with the classic holiday drink, eggnog. To make it vegan, use a plant-based creamer and substitute the traditional vodka for a vegan-friendly option. It's the perfect drink to enjoy during the holiday season.
This simple and delicious cake is made with apples and a light batter that is reminiscent of a cross between a cake and a pie. To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based milk in place of dairy milk. Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a comforting and tasty dessert.
Buckwheat is a staple in Russian cuisine and is often used in soups and stews. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with buckwheat, vegetables, and sometimes meat. To make a vegan version, simply use vegetable broth and omit the meat. Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
20of 20
White Russian Cheesecake Bars
Main Ingredients: Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, Unsalted Butter, Cream
These decadent bars combine the flavors of a White Russian cocktail with a creamy and rich cheesecake. To make them vegan, use a combination of vegan cream cheese and plant-based milk in the filling and substitute the traditional vodka for a vegan-friendly option. They make for a delicious and indulgent dessert.
The Perfect Dough
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm water
1 egg
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
To make the perfect vareniki dough, start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add it to the flour mixture along with the warm water and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
The Filling
Ingredients:
2 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
Salt and pepper to taste
For a classic Russian vareniki filling, mix together mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, onion, dill, and seasonings in a bowl. For a sweeter option, try filling the vareniki with a mixture of chopped apples, cinnamon, and sugar. Get creative and experiment with different fillings to find your favorite!
Assembling and Cooking
To assemble the vareniki, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut circles out of the dough. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the vareniki.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully drop in the vareniki. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a colander to drain. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Get Creative
Vareniki can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a sweet dessert. They can also be boiled, fried, or even baked for a crispy texture. Experiment with different fillings and cooking methods to find your perfect vareniki recipe. And don't forget to serve them with a dollop of sour cream or melted butter for the ultimate Russian vareniki experience.
Now that you have the perfect easy vareniki recipe, impress your friends and family with your culinary skills and enjoy a taste of authentic Russian cuisine. It's easy, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite.