Perogies, also known as pierogi, are a beloved Polish dish consisting of dumplings filled with various savory or sweet fillings. This recipe for Grandma’s Polish Perogies is a homage to the traditional dish, featuring a savory potato and cheese filling and a tender dough wrapper. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply craving some comfort food, these perogies are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients for Grandma’s Polish Perogies
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking and Serving:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- Sour cream, for serving
How to Make Grandma’s Polish Perogies
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream, and butter.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and chopped onion.
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent. Add the cooked onion to the potato mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Assemble the Perogies:
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles of dough.
- Place a spoonful of the potato filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork to secure.
- Cook the Perogies:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the perogies in batches and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
- Serve the Perogies:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized.
- Add the cooked perogies to the skillet and cook until lightly browned and heated through.
- Serve the perogies hot, topped with caramelized onions and a dollop of sour cream.
About the Main Ingredients
- Flour: Flour is the base of the perogy dough, providing structure and texture to the dumplings.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are the main ingredient in the filling, adding a creamy and hearty texture. They are a staple in Polish cuisine and are often used in dumplings and other traditional dishes.
- Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a sharp and savory flavor to the filling, complementing the creamy potatoes.
- Onion: Onion is a key ingredient in both the filling and the caramelized onion topping, adding a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
- Sour Cream: Sour cream is used in both the dough and as a topping, adding a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the perogies. It is a common ingredient in Polish cooking, used in both savory and sweet dishes.
- 6. Variations and Serving Suggestions:
- Variations: You can customize the filling by adding ingredients like bacon, sauerkraut, mushrooms, or different types of cheese. For a sweet twist, try filling the perogies with fruit preserves or sweetened cheese.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the perogies as a main dish with a side of vegetables or salad, or as a side dish with roasted meats. They are also delicious served with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs on top.
- 7. Storing and Reheating:
- Storing: Store any leftover perogies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, you can pan-fry the perogies in butter until heated through and crispy, or microwave them for a quick option.
- 8. About Polish Cuisine:
- Polish cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, often featuring ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, pork, and mushrooms. Perogies are a classic Polish dish, enjoyed by families for generations and often served on special occasions and holidays.
Making Grandma’s Polish Perogies is a labor of love, but the result is well worth it. These dumplings are filled with a delicious potato and cheese filling, wrapped in a tender dough, and cooked until golden and crispy. Whether you’re celebrating your Polish heritage or simply looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, these perogies are sure to please.
Enjoy these homemade perogies with your family and friends, and savor the flavors of Poland in every bite!
