Russian pelmeni –Pelmeni, a traditional Russian dumpling, are a delightful dish that fills the heart and warms the soul. Whether enjoying them as comfort food on a chilly day or serving them at a festive gathering, making pelmeni is an art that brings people together. Below, I’ll share a cherished recipe that captures the essence of this beloved dish.
Pelmeni Recipe – Craving Tasty
These little pockets of joy can be filled with a variety of ingredients, but we’ll stick to the classic beef and pork combination that makes them truly special.

Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to start your pelmeni making journey:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup of water (more if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz ground beef
- 8 oz ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter for serving (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Make a well in the center and crack the egg into it. Gradually add the water while mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- After the dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Place a small spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a semi-circle and press to seal the edges tightly. For an authentic look, you can twist the edges together.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the pelmeni into the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pelmeni to a plate. If desired, you can sauté them in a bit of butter for a delicious finish.
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade pelmeni with family and friends, and savor each delicious bite!