How to Make Russian Dumplings (Pelmeni) from Scratch - Wander Russia 2025 Guide

Pelmeni are a quintessential Russian dish, beloved for their comforting, hearty nature. These little dumplings, traditionally filled with minced meat, are a popular meal throughout Russia and have been passed down through generations. They are often enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream, or even in a warm broth, making them perfect for any time of year. While they can be found in grocery stores, making pelmeni from scratch allows you to truly experience the flavors of this beloved dish and offers a satisfying cooking experience.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of making authentic Russian pelmeni from scratch, from preparing the dough to filling the dumplings and cooking them to perfection. By the end, you’ll be able to create these delicious dumplings in your own kitchen.

1. Ingredients for Russian Pelmeni

Why It’s Important

Pelmeni are made with a few simple, yet essential ingredients. The quality of the meat and dough will directly affect the flavor and texture of the final dish, so it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients for the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup water (or as needed)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter

Ingredients for the Filling

• 1 lb ground meat (traditionally a mix of pork and beef)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for added flavor)
• Water or broth (for moistening the filling)

Why These Ingredients Work

• Dough: The dough for pelmeni needs to be firm enough to hold the filling but soft enough to be rolled out thinly. The egg and oil help achieve a tender texture while the salt adds flavor to the dough.
• Filling: Traditional pelmeni filling is made from a combination of ground meats, usually pork and beef, with onions and seasoning to bring out a savory flavor. Some variations may also include chicken or lamb.

2. Making the Dough for Pelmeni

Why It’s Important

The dough forms the foundation of the pelmeni, so achieving the right consistency is essential. It should be elastic and smooth, making it easy to roll out thinly.

Steps to Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the Flour and Salt: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture to create a space for the wet ingredients.
2. Add the Egg and Water: Crack the egg into the well, add the water and oil or melted butter, and begin mixing with a fork or your hands. Gradually incorporate the flour from the edges of the well until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add more water, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rest: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

3. Preparing the Filling

Why It’s Important

The filling is the heart of the pelmeni. The right balance of seasoning and moisture will ensure that each dumpling is flavorful and juicy.

Steps to Prepare the Filling

1. Combine the Meats: In a large bowl, mix the ground pork and beef (or other meat choices). This combination provides a balance of flavor and fat, which keeps the filling moist.
2. Add the Onions and Garlic: Stir in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic (if using). The onions will provide moisture and flavor to the filling.
3. Season the Filling: Add salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings such as ground cumin. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You can add a little water or broth to make the mixture more moist, as pelmeni filling should be juicy.
4. Mix Well: Thoroughly combine the ingredients, ensuring that the meat mixture is uniform and well-seasoned.

4. Assembling the Pelmeni

Why It’s Important

The technique of filling and sealing the pelmeni is key to ensuring that they cook properly and the filling doesn’t leak out during boiling.

Steps to Assemble the Dumplings

1. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has rested, divide it into 2-3 smaller portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough into a thin sheet, about 1/16-inch thick. You want the dough to be thin enough to allow the filling to shine but thick enough to hold its shape.
2. Cut Circles: Use a round cookie cutter, a glass, or a special pelmeni mold to cut circles from the dough. Each circle should be about 3 inches in diameter—perfect for a bite-sized dumpling.
3. Add the Filling: Place a small spoonful of the filling (about a teaspoon) in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
4. Seal the Dumplings: Fold the dough circle in half to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly together to seal the dumpling. Then, bring the two corners of the half-moon together, pressing them firmly to form the traditional pelmeni shape. Make sure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
5. Repeat: Continue this process until all the dough and filling have been used.

5. Cooking Pelmeni

Why It’s Important

Pelmeni are traditionally boiled in water or broth, and they cook quickly. The key is to ensure that the dumplings are cooked thoroughly without losing their shape or flavor.

Steps to Cook Pelmeni

1. Boil Water or Broth: Bring a large pot of salted water or broth to a boil. You can also use chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor, which is common in Russian cooking.
2. Cook the Dumplings: Carefully drop the pelmeni into the boiling water, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom. Once the dumplings float to the surface, reduce the heat and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
3. Check for Doneness: The pelmeni should be tender, and the filling should be hot and cooked through. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check that the filling is fully cooked.

6. Serving Pelmeni

Why It’s Important

Pelmeni are often served with sour cream or a variety of toppings, and knowing how to present them can elevate the experience.

Steps to Serve

1. Serve with Sour Cream: The classic way to serve pelmeni is with a dollop of sour cream on top. The creamy tanginess complements the savory filling, making each bite more indulgent.
2. Add Butter or Broth: Some people prefer to drizzle melted butter over the pelmeni, or serve them in a warm, flavorful broth. This is a common way to enjoy pelmeni in Russian households, particularly in colder months.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the dish, giving it an extra burst of flavor.
4. Serve as a Main Dish or Appetizer: Pelmeni can be served as a main course, usually with some side dishes like pickled vegetables or a fresh salad, or they can be served as an appetizer at gatherings and celebrations.

7. Tips for Storing and Freezing Pelmeni

Why It’s Important

Pelmeni can be made in large batches and stored for later, making them a convenient meal for busy days.

Tips for Storing and Freezing

• Freezing Uncooked Pelmeni: If you want to make pelmeni ahead of time, place the assembled dumplings on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dumplings to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Cooking Frozen Pelmeni: When ready to cook, drop the frozen pelmeni directly into boiling water or broth—there’s no need to thaw them first. They may take an extra minute or two to cook compared to fresh ones.

Conclusion

Making pelmeni from scratch is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a truly authentic Russian dish in your own home. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family dinner or sharing them with friends, these dumplings offer a taste of Russian tradition and culinary heritage. By following the steps for making the dough, filling, assembling, and cooking the pelmeni, you’ll create a dish that is both comforting and delicious, and one that reflects the rich food culture of Russia.