How to Cook Siberian Pelmeni: A Step-by-Step Guide - Wander Russia 2025 Guide

Pelmeni, one of the most iconic dishes in Siberian cuisine, are small dumplings typically filled with meat and onions, then boiled and served with sour cream or butter. These hearty, comforting dumplings have been part of Russian and Siberian cuisine for centuries and are a favorite dish in Siberian homes, particularly during cold winters when rich, filling food is essential for warmth and energy. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making Siberian pelmeni, from making the dough to preparing the filling and cooking the dumplings to perfection.

Step 1: Prepare the Pelmeni Dough

The dough for pelmeni is simple but must be soft and smooth for the perfect texture. The key ingredients are flour, eggs, and water, with a pinch of salt for flavor.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water (you may need a little more, depending on the dough’s consistency)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for a smoother dough)

Method:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir them together to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Crack the egg into the well, then pour in the water and vegetable oil (if using). Using a spoon or your hands, gently mix the ingredients together until they form a dough.
3. Knead the Dough: Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as you want the dough to remain soft and tender.
4. Rest the Dough: Once kneaded, cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Prepare the Pelmeni Filling

The traditional filling for Siberian pelmeni is a simple combination of ground meat, usually beef, pork, or lamb. Onions, salt, and pepper are used to enhance the flavor. The meat filling can also be made using venison, chicken, or even a vegetarian version with mushrooms and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork (or substitute with lamb or other meats)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup cold water or broth (optional, for a juicier filling)

Method:

1. Mix the Meats: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. You can also mix the meats in a ratio that suits your taste. Some people use more beef, while others prefer more pork for a richer flavor.
2. Add the Seasonings: Add the finely chopped onion, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Add Moisture: To keep the filling moist, add about 1/4 cup of cold water or broth. Mix until the filling is well combined and slightly soft but not too wet. Some recipes suggest refrigerating the filling for an hour to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Assemble the Pelmeni

Now that you have your dough and filling prepared, it’s time to assemble the dumplings.

Method:

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, take the rested dough and roll it out into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick. Make sure it’s thin enough for the dumplings to cook quickly but thick enough that it holds the filling well.
2. Cut Circles: Using a round cutter or a glass with a diameter of about 3 inches, cut out circles from the dough. Gather any leftover dough, re-roll it, and continue cutting out circles.
3. Add the Filling: Place about 1 teaspoon of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the dumplings to burst during cooking.
4. Fold and Seal: To form the dumplings, fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal it tightly. For a traditional look, you can then bring the two ends of the half-moon together to form a ring and pinch the edges again. This creates the signature pelmeni shape.
5. Repeat: Continue filling and shaping the remaining pelmeni until all the dough and filling are used up. Place the finished dumplings on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Pelmeni

Now that your pelmeni are ready, it’s time to cook them. They are typically boiled in a large pot of salted water until they float to the surface.

Method:

1. Bring Water to a Boil: In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding salt to taste (about 1-2 tablespoons).
2. Cook the Pelmeni: Carefully drop the pelmeni into the boiling water. Do not overcrowd the pot—cook them in batches if necessary. Stir gently to prevent the dumplings from sticking together.
3. Boil Until Done: Once the pelmeni float to the surface, continue boiling them for about 4-5 minutes. The dough should be soft, and the meat inside should be fully cooked.
4. Remove and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the pelmeni from the water. Serve them hot with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh dill, or a drizzle of melted butter.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Pelmeni!

Pelmeni are best enjoyed fresh and hot, with the delicious combination of tender dough and savory filling. They can be served as a main course or enjoyed as a hearty snack. Siberian pelmeni are often served with sour cream, but they can also be topped with vinegar, hot sauce, or even broth for a different experience.

Additional Tips:

• Freezing Pelmeni: Pelmeni can be made in large batches and frozen for later use. Simply place the assembled pelmeni on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. To cook, simply boil the frozen pelmeni in water for about 8-10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, you can fill pelmeni with a mixture of mushrooms, potatoes, and onions, or even cheese and spinach.

Conclusion

Making Siberian pelmeni at home is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy one of the most beloved dishes of Russian and Siberian cuisine. With its simple yet flavorful meat filling and soft dough, pelmeni is a dish that brings people together, whether at a family dinner or a special occasion. The hearty, comforting nature of pelmeni makes them a perfect meal for any season, but especially comforting during Siberia’s cold winters.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can create authentic Siberian pelmeni that are as delicious as they are satisfying. Whether served with sour cream, vinegar, or butter, these dumplings will transport you to the heart of Siberian cuisine. Enjoy!