Veranecki, or “pillows,” are a beloved Eastern European comfort food featuring soft, flour-based dough parcels filled with rich, dry cottage cheese. These dumplings offer a delightful contrast between the tender, slightly chewy exterior and the creamy, savory filling within. They are incredibly satisfying on their own, traditionally served hot with a generous knob of butter that melts into the warm dough. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty vegetarian meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the high-quality cottage cheese to shine, creating a nostalgic, home-style experience. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a substantial side, these pillows deliver warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Veranecki (Pillows
Description
Veranecki, or "pillows," are a beloved Eastern European comfort food featuring soft, flour-based dough parcels filled with rich, dry cottage cheese. These dumplings offer a delightful contrast between the tender, slightly chewy exterior and the creamy, savory filling within. They are incredibly satisfying on their own, traditionally served hot with a generous knob of butter that melts into the warm dough. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty vegetarian meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the high-quality cottage cheese to shine, creating a nostalgic, home-style experience. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a substantial side, these pillows deliver warmth and satisfaction with every bite.Ingredients
Directions
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Combine flour, baking powder, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt in a large bowl.
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Gradually add cold water, mixing until a soft, noodle-like dough forms.
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Knead the dough until smooth and well mixed.
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Divide the dough into two equal balls and set one aside.
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On a floured surface, roll the first dough ball into a large circle, approximately 1/8 inch thick.
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Cut the rolled dough into 3-inch squares.
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Mix the dry cottage cheese, egg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt together to form the filling.
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Place 1 teaspoon of the cottage cheese mixture in the center of each dough square, ensuring no cheese touches the edges.
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Pinch the edges of the dough closed with your fingers to seal the pillow.
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Bring a large kettle of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
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Gently lower the pillows into the boiling water, cooking no more than 5 or 6 at a time to prevent sticking.
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Cook for about 7 minutes, or until the pillows rise to the top, puff up, and take on a yellowish cast.
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Carefully remove the pillows from the pot using a slotted spoon.
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Place the cooked pillows in a serving bowl and top with a stick of butter.
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Serve hot with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 786.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.1g13%
- Saturated Fat 3.5g18%
- Cholesterol 62.5mg21%
- Sodium 10313.5mg430%
- Total Carbohydrate 141.0g47%
- Dietary Fiber 4.9g20%
- Sugars 3.6g
- Protein 32.1g65%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.