Pelmeni soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the richness of a flavorful broth with the satisfying heartiness of dumplings. It’s a beloved comfort food, especially in Eastern European and Russian cuisines, where it’s cherished for its warmth and simplicity. The dumplings in this soup, known as pelmeni, are made from tender dough stuffed with ground meat, usually a mix of beef, pork, or lamb, and then boiled in a rich, savory broth. This makes it an ideal dish for cold weather or when you’re craving something that truly sticks to your ribs.
This variation of the traditional pelmeni takes it up a notch by turning it into a full-fledged soup, perfect for anyone who loves a good dumpling dish but wants more depth and flavor in their meal. Not only do you get the comfort of dumplings, but the addition of vegetables, herbs, and a well-seasoned broth creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors that makes this soup truly irresistible.
Pelmeni Soup Recipe
This version of pelmeni soup stays true to its roots, but we’ll throw in a few tips and tricks to make sure the flavors come together beautifully. Here’s everything you need to know to create a soul-warming bowl of this delicious dish.
Ingredients Needed
To make the perfect pelmeni soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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For The Pelmeni Dumplings
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup of cold water
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
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For The Filling
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork (or lamb for a richer flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For The Soup Base
- 6 cups of beef or chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to guide you through the cooking process. Take your time with each stage to make sure the flavors develop properly.
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Prepare The Pelmeni Dumplings
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, egg, water, and salt. Mix it into a dough that is firm but pliable. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, and if it’s too dry, add a touch more water.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth, then cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest while you prepare the filling.
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Make The Filling
- In a separate bowl, mix the ground beef and pork. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
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Shape The Pelmeni Dumplings
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s thin (about 1/8-inch thick). Using a round cutter (a glass or a cookie cutter works well), cut out circles of dough.
- Place a small spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pinching the edges tightly to seal. Then, bring the two ends together to form a dumpling.
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Cook The Dumplings
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and gently drop the pelmeni into the water. Let them cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until they float to the top. Once they’re cooked, remove them with a slotted spoon and set them aside.
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Make The Soup Base
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrots and potatoes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the broth, bay leaf, and thyme, then bring everything to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Combine The Pelmeni And Soup
- Gently add the cooked pelmeni dumplings to the soup. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
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Garnish And Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill. Serve with a side of sour cream if desired for extra richness.
Ingredient Insights
To elevate your pelmeni soup, understanding the role of each ingredient is key:
- The Dough: A simple combination of flour, egg, and water creates a delicate, soft dough that encases the flavorful filling. The slight chewiness of the dough enhances the soup’s texture, making every bite satisfying.
- The Filling: The classic mix of beef and pork gives the dumplings a rich, savory taste. Ground pork provides a bit of fattiness, while beef adds depth. The onions and garlic in the filling introduce aromatic qualities that complement the other ingredients.
- The Broth: A good, flavorful broth is crucial in any soup, and pelmeni soup is no exception. Homemade broth made from beef bones or chicken provides a robust flavor that makes the dish feel like home. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought broth can still give a tasty result, but fresh is always best.
- The Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are the heart of the soup base, providing natural sweetness and heartiness. They absorb the flavors of the broth, making them just as delicious as the dumplings themselves.
- Herbs: Dill and parsley add a fresh, herbal kick that cuts through the richness of the soup. Dill is especially traditional in Eastern European cuisine and balances the meaty flavors beautifully.
Expert Tips
To take your pelmeni soup to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Rest the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for at least 20-30 minutes before rolling it out. This makes the dough easier to handle and ensures it will be soft and tender once cooked.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When cooking the pelmeni dumplings, make sure the pot is large enough so that they have room to move around. Overcrowding the pot can result in them sticking together.
- Freeze for Later: If you make extra pelmeni dumplings, they freeze beautifully! Lay them out on a baking sheet until they’re frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. You can cook them directly from frozen when you’re ready to make more soup.
- Season as You Go: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning at different stages of cooking. Sometimes the broth needs a little extra salt or pepper after the dumplings are added, so always check the seasoning before serving.
Recipe Variations
While the classic version of pelmeni soup is always a hit, there are plenty of ways to mix it up. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian Pelmeni: For a lighter version, substitute the meat filling with mushrooms or potatoes. A mushroom filling provides a savory depth, and potatoes add creaminess. You can even use a plant-based broth for a fully vegetarian version.
- Spicy Pelmeni Soup: If you love a bit of heat, try adding chili flakes or a sliced chili pepper to the broth. A dash of smoked paprika also adds a smoky, spicy kick to the dumplings.
- Different Meat Fillings: While beef and pork are the classic combo, you can experiment with other meats. Ground lamb, turkey, or chicken all work well in pelmeni. For a more robust flavor, mix in some bacon or pancetta with the meat.
- Herb Infused Broth: You can infuse the broth with extra flavors like bay leaves, rosemary, or even a touch of lemon zest for a subtle citrus undertone. This variation will give the soup a fresh, bright taste.
Final Words
Pelmeni soup is a dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia. It’s the kind of food that brings people together and makes you feel cozy, whether you’re sitting down with your family on a cold evening or sharing a bowl with friends on a weekend. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between tender dumplings, savory broth, and hearty vegetables.
Each spoonful is a comforting journey, and while the recipe may seem like a bit of work, it’s definitely worth the effort. Once you taste how the flavors meld together, you’ll see why pelmeni soup has been a beloved dish for generations.
FAQs
What Is Pelmeni Soup?
Pelmeni soup is a comforting and hearty Russian dish that combines homemade or store-bought pelmeni (dumplings) with a flavorful broth. The soup typically includes ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and spices, creating a rich and savory base for the dumplings.
How Do You Make Pelmeni For The Soup?
To make pelmeni for the soup, you prepare small dumplings by filling dough with a mixture of minced meat (usually beef, pork, or chicken), onions, and spices. The dumplings are then boiled in a broth or water until they float, indicating they are cooked.
What Ingredients Are Typically Used In Pelmeni Soup?
Common ingredients in pelmeni soup include pelmeni dumplings, beef or chicken broth, onions, carrots, garlic, bay leaves, dill, and salt. Some variations may also include potatoes, celery, or a splash of vinegar for extra flavor.
Can I Make Pelmeni Soup With Store-bought Pelmeni?
Yes, store-bought pelmeni can be used to save time. Simply add them to the simmering broth and cook until they float, just as you would with homemade pelmeni.
How Long Does It Take To Make Pelmeni Soup From Scratch?
Making pelmeni soup from scratch can take about 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes time to prepare and shape the dumplings, cook them, and make the broth. If you use pre-made pelmeni, the cooking time is reduced to about 30 minutes.
Can I Freeze Pelmeni For The Soup?
Yes, pelmeni can be frozen both before and after cooking. To freeze raw pelmeni, lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. Frozen pelmeni can be added directly to boiling broth without thawing.
What Kind Of Broth Is Best For Pelmeni Soup?
A rich beef or chicken broth works best for pelmeni soup as it complements the flavor of the dumplings. Some people prefer to make a homemade broth by simmering bones with vegetables and herbs for several hours, while others use store-bought broth for convenience.
Can I Add Vegetables To Pelmeni Soup?
Yes, vegetables such as carrots, onions, and potatoes are commonly added to pelmeni soup. These vegetables enhance the flavor of the broth and make the soup more filling and nutritious.
Is Pelmeni Soup A Traditional Russian Dish?
Yes, pelmeni soup is a traditional Russian dish, though variations can be found across Eastern Europe and Central Asia. It is often served as a comforting meal during the colder months.
What Can I Serve With Pelmeni Soup?
Pelmeni soup is often served with sour cream on the side, which adds a creamy and tangy contrast to the savory broth. Some people also enjoy it with fresh herbs, such as dill, or a slice of rye bread.