Dumplings have been a cherished part of Eastern European and Balkan cuisine for generations. Whether filled with potatoes, meat, or fruit, these comforting dishes bring together simple ingredients, rich flavours, and time-honoured traditions.
From the chewy, savoury bite of pelmeni to the sweet, delicate taste of plum dumplings, these dumplings are perfect for hearty meals, festive gatherings, or a nostalgic taste of home.
Perogies: A Classic Comfort Food
Perogies are one of the most beloved Eastern European dumplings, known for their soft dough and delicious fillings. Originating in Poland and Ukraine, they are enjoyed across Central and Eastern Europe, each region adding its own twist.
Popular Perogy Fillings:
Potato & Cheese – A classic combination, creamy and satisfying.
Sauerkraut & Mushroom – A tangy, earthy option, perfect for traditional meals.
Meat – Often filled with seasoned pork or beef, ideal for a hearty dish.
Sweet Cheese or Berries – A dessert variation, lightly sweetened and served with sour cream or sugar.
How to Enjoy Perogies:
Boiled and served with butter and sour cream for a simple, comforting meal.
Pan-fried until golden and crispy, often topped with caramelized onions.
Baked in casseroles, layered with cheese and bacon for a richer dish.
Pelmeni: The Russian-Style Dumpling
Pelmeni are small, round dumplings filled with seasoned meat, typically a mix of pork, beef, or lamb. Unlike perogies, pelmeni have a thinner dough and a juicier filling, making them a staple of Russian and Siberian cuisine.
What Makes Pelmeni Unique?
Simple yet flavourful seasoning, often with black pepper and garlic.
Boiled and served in broth or with a dollop of sour cream.
A quick and hearty meal, traditionally enjoyed in cold winter months.
Pelmeni are often compared to Italian tortellini or Chinese dumplings, but their distinct filling and delicate dough make them uniquely Eastern European.
Gomboć, Galuste cu Prune: Sweet Plum Dumplings
Unlike perogies and pelmeni, which are typically savoury, gomboć (Hungarian), galuste cu prune (Romanian), or plum dumplings are a sweet, fruit-filled treat. These dumplings are made with a soft potato-based dough, wrapped around a whole plum or plum jam filling, then boiled and coated in buttered breadcrumbs and sugar.
Why Plum Dumplings Are Special:
A perfect balance of sweetness and texture, with a soft, pillowy dough.
Lightly spiced with cinnamon or vanilla, enhancing the natural flavour of the plums.
Often served warm, making them a comforting dessert or afternoon treat.
These dumplings are a traditional autumn dish, especially in Hungary, Romania, and parts of Austria, where fresh plums are abundant.
Enjoying Traditional Dumplings
Perogies, pelmeni, and plum dumplings are a delicious part of Eastern European cooking, enjoyed in both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether served with butter and sour cream or a dusting of sugar, they make for a satisfying and familiar dish.
Great for family dinners or a quick, comforting meal, these dumplings bring a taste of tradition to the table in a simple, enjoyable way.