Vareniki (Ukrainian Pierogi Dumplings)

Vareniki are pillowy dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese that are comforting and endlessly versatile. This version keeps it classic and simple, filling the rich egg dough with nutty Yukon gold potatoes, cottage cheese, and caramelized onions, but feel free to customize with what’s in season — or to match the version that comes from memory. Tossed in butter along with a little starchy cooking water, the vareniki end up with just the right amount of sauce to keep them from getting dry. Vareniki may appear undramatic, but they deliver big on flavor.

Is cottage cheese traditional in vareniki? 

Twaróg is the cheese traditionally used, but since it’s not easy to find in the U.S., cottage cheese is the substitution of choice.

Are vareniki the same as pierogi?

Pierogi and vareniki hail from similar regions in Eastern Europe. They are very closely related, though pierogi are often fried and a little larger than vareniki. And, quite simply, if you live in western Ukraine, which is closer to Poland, they are often called pierogi.

What are some additional toppings for vareniki?

Sour cream, bacon, and sauteed onions are all common toppings for vareniki. Sweeter variations of vareniki also exist with fillings including berries, cream cheese, beets, and poppy seeds.

Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen

This recipe's kneading time is about five minutes, unlike pasta dough, which is typically kneaded for at least 10 minutes. Do not over-knead the dough; this will activate the gluten and result in a tough dumpling.

If your dumpling rounds dry out as you assemble them, cover them with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. 

Make ahead

Arrange the vareniki in a single layer on a lightly floured baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the vareniki until partially frozen, or for about 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, do not thaw the vareniki; cook directly from frozen.

This recipe was developed by Liz Mervosh; the text was written by Breana Killeen.