Russian Pelmeni Recipe + New Dough Recipe

This Russian Pelmeni recipe combines the rich flavors of ground turkey and pork with a soft, homemade dough, making it a perfect comfort food. Pelmeni are versatile dumplings filled with seasoned meat and can be served with a variety of toppings like sour cream, vinegar, or ketchup. This recipe includes detailed instructions on making both the dough and filling from scratch, as well as freezing tips for future meals. Serve with melted butter or your favorite sauces for a delicious, traditional Russian meal. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe offers a savory, filling dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Pelmeni Dough:

• 2/3 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups warm water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 7 cups plus 6 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour

Pelmeni Filling:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, pressed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Toppings (optional):

• Melted butter
• Sour cream
• Vinegar
• Ketchup

Instructions

How to Make the Pelmeni Dough:

1. Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, mix the buttermilk, sour cream, warm water, eggs, and salt on medium speed until well blended.
2. Switch to the dough hook and add 4 cups of flour. Mix on speed 2 until well incorporated.
3. Gradually add the remaining 3 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
4. Add the remaining 6 tablespoons of flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is no longer sticking to the sides of the bowl. Continue mixing for about 5 more minutes. Total mixing time is about 20 minutes.
5. Once done, place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead it by hand for a couple of minutes until smooth. Set it aside.

How to Make the Pelmeni Filling:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet. Add the diced onion and sauté until golden and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the pressed garlic and sauté for another minute.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground pork, ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, salt, pepper, and hot sauce (optional). Mix everything until well combined.

Shaping the Pelmeni:

• Using a Pelmeni Mold:
  1. Take small chunks of dough, about the size of a tennis ball, and roll them out into circles.
  2. Place the dough over the pelmeni mold, then fill each pocket with about 1/2 teaspoon of filling.
  3. Roll out another piece of dough and place it over the filled mold. Use a rolling pin to roll over the top, pressing down from the center outward to create well-defined pelmeni.
  4. Turn the mold over and push the pelmeni out onto a floured cutting board. Arrange the pelmeni evenly, sprinkle with flour, and freeze them until solid.
• Making Pelmeni by Hand:
  1. Shape the dough into a thick log (about 1-2 inches). Cut off small portions (about the size of a gumball) and roll each into a disk, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  2. Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each disk and fold the edges together. Pinch the corners to form a small pocket, resembling a diaper shape.
  3. Place the pelmeni on a floured cutting board, sprinkle with flour, and freeze until solid.

Cooking the Pelmeni:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt for a large pot (or 1 teaspoon for a smaller pot).
2. Add the frozen pelmeni to the boiling water. Once they float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 3 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked.
3. Drain the pelmeni and transfer them to a clean bowl. Toss them with melted butter and sprinkle with dill (optional).
4. Serve the pelmeni warm with your choice of toppings such as sour cream, vinegar, or ketchup.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground turkey and pork with sautéed onions and garlic creates a rich, savory filling that perfectly complements the tender dough.
• Perfect for Freezing: Make a big batch and freeze them for later, so you can enjoy a comforting meal whenever you want!
• Customizable: Top with your favorite sauces like sour cream, vinegar, or even ketchup for a personalized touch.

Tips

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: For the best texture, avoid overmixing the dough. Once it comes together, stop and let it rest.
• Make Extra Pelmeni: Since they freeze so well, make a large batch to enjoy later. You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Check Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a small splash of water to reach the right consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Meats: You can substitute the ground turkey and pork with other meats like chicken, beef, or lamb to suit your taste.
• Dairy-Free Option: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can use a dairy-free milk alternative in the dough and skip the sour cream topping.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough for pelmeni?
While homemade dough yields the best results, you can use store-bought dough in a pinch for a quicker option.

How do I store pelmeni?
Pelmeni can be stored in a sealed container or ziplock bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just cook them directly from frozen.

Can I make these in advance?
Yes! Make the pelmeni in advance, freeze them, and cook them whenever you’re ready to enjoy them.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Course: Pelmeni are hearty enough to serve as a main dish with a side of salad or roasted vegetables.
• Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, a splash of vinegar, or a sprinkle of dill for extra flavor.
• Soup Style: Pelmeni can also be added to a flavorful broth for a comforting soup.

Enjoy your homemade Russian pelmeni with a choice of delicious toppings and warm, satisfying comfort!