Cherry Dumplings (Varenyky)
Cherry dumplings, or varenyky, are a beloved Ukrainian dish filled with juicy cherries and wrapped in tender dough. These sweet dumplings are traditionally served with sour cream or a sprinkle of sugar. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a special treat!
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 250 g for the dough: 2 cups
- 150 ml warm water ½ cup
- 1 egg large
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the filling:
- 300 g cherries fresh or frozen (pitted)
- 70 g sugar ⅓ cup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For serving:
- 200 g sour cream
- Honey or powdered sugar to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the egg, warm water, and vegetable oil. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix cherries with sugar and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Roll and cut the dough: Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick. Cut into circles using a glass or cookie cutter.
- Fill the dumplings: Place a few cherries in the center of each dough circle. Fold in half and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- Boil the dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the dumplings and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Serve: Drain and serve warm with butter or sour cream. Enjoy!
Notes
Varenyky (Ukrainian dumplings) are one of the most iconic dishes of Ukrainian cuisine, with deep historical roots. It is believed that they date back to the times of Kyivan Rus and may have been influenced by Turkic cuisine, resembling Asian mantı. However, Ukrainians perfected this dish, making the dough light and tender while adding various fillings, from potatoes to cherries.
Cherry dumplings became especially popular due to their perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors combined with soft, delicate dough. They were often prepared for celebrations, and a famous Ukrainian saying goes: “No holiday without varenyky!”
Interesting Facts:
- Cherry dumplings are mentioned in many Ukrainian folk songs and classic literature.
- In Ukraine, dumplings are often prepared for weddings as a symbol of prosperity and happiness.
- In Poltava, it is believed that cherry dumplings bring good luck, especially when made with love.
