Kalduny

Lithuania

Place of Origin:

Koldunai

Also Known as:

Kalduny are small dumplings that come with a variety of fillings such as meat, curd cheese, diced mushroom, or fresh berries. They are served with a sauce or topping that depends on the stuffing. Kalduny may be served as a main course or a dessert, depending on the stuffing.

Description

Ingredients

For the dough:
3 cups flour
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
1/2 pound ground beef
1 small onion
3 garlic cloves
3 tablespoons pine nuts
1 tablespoon allspice
1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
A pinch of parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

For the yogurt sauce:
32 ounces plain yogurt
1 cups water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons salt

Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the dough by mixing all ingredients together, gradually adding water. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Start the filling by blending onion, garlic, and parsley in a food processor.

Step 3: Cook ground beef in a saucepan over medium heat until browned. Add allspice, paprika, salt, and the blended mixture.

Step 4: When the meat is almost done, add pine nuts and cook for an additional minute or two. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface into a sheet approximately 1/8 inch thick.

Step 6: Cut the dough into small circles, around 3/4 inch in diameter, using a cookie cutter or the bottom of a cup.

Step 7: Add one teaspoon of filling to each circle and roll into dumplings.

Step 8: Place the dumplings in a nonstick pan and bake in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes, until lightly browned. Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes for additional color.

Step 9: Prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing all ingredients together, preferably using a blender.

Step 10: Simmer the yogurt sauce in a pot on medium heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring constantly. When it starts to boil, add the dumplings and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Adjust the consistency with more cornstarch if needed.