Easy Pierogi with Potatoes and Cheese

Pierogi-polish
Ratings 4.9 from 11 votes
Cuisine
Courses , ,
Difficulty Intermediate
Time
Prep Time: 90 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Rest Time: 30 mins Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Servings 4
Calories 422
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description

Pierogi are a type of dumpling made with unleavened dough and filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. They are a popular dish in Poland and other countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

Ingredients
    For the dough
  • 2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • For the filling
  • 1 lb mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • Salt and pepper
Instructions
  1. To make the dough, whisk together the flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the egg and water. Stir until a dough forms.
  2. Take the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
  3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  4. To make the filling, in a large bowl combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
  6. Cut the dough into 3-inch circles.
  7. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle.
  8. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
  9. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  10. Add the pierogi to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove the pierogi from the water with a slotted spoon and drain well.
  11. That step is optional. In a pan heat a tablespoon of oil and fry the pierogi on each side until golden.  

  12. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips
  • If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
  • If the dough is too dry, add more water.
  • Be careful not to overcrowd the pot when cooking the pierogi, or they will stick together.
  • If you are not going to serve the pierogi immediately, you can freeze them on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months.
  • Don't overfill the pierogi. If you overfill the pierogi, they will be difficult to seal and they may burst open when cooking.
  • Don't overcook the pierogi. If you overcook the pierogi, they will be tough.
  • The toppings are also important. You can serve pierogi with sour cream, fried onions, applesauce, or your favorite sauce.
  • The filling is what makes the pierogi unique. You can experiment with different fillings to find your favorite.
Keywords: pierogi, polish