Indulge in the delightful taste of Ukrainian cuisine with our irresistible "Lenivie Vareniki Farmer Cheese" recipe! These pillowy dumplings are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a warm hug for your soul. With a mere 30 minutes of preparation and cooking time, you can whip up a comforting dish that serves four, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Imagine sinking your teeth into soft, cheesy dumplings, perfectly complemented by a rich swirl of melted butter and a dollop of sour cream. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g farmer cheese
- 1 egg
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Butter for serving
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the farmer cheese, egg, salt, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and create a smooth consistency.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the cheese mixture, kneading gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dough tough.
- Dust a clean work surface with flour to prevent sticking. Transfer the dough onto the surface and gently knead for 2-3 minutes until it becomes more elastic and smooth.
- Roll the dough into a long log, approximately 2-3 cm in diameter. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into small pieces, each about 2-3 cm long.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the dough pieces into the boiling water, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the vareniki for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. This indicates they are fully cooked. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain excess water.
- Transfer the cooked vareniki to a serving plate. Generously brush with melted butter to prevent sticking and add rich flavor.
- Serve hot, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream on the side. Garnish with additional butter if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh farmer cheese. If you can’t find it, ricotta can be a good substitute, but be sure to drain any excess moisture.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead the dough just until it’s smooth and elastic. Overmixing can lead to tough vareniki, so be gentle!
- Boiling Water: Ensure your water is at a gentle boil before adding the dumplings. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from sticking together.
- Batch Cooking: Cook the vareniki in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. This ensures they cook properly and float to the surface, signaling they’re done.
- Serving Suggestions: While butter and sour cream are classic accompaniments, feel free to get creative! Try adding sautéed onions, crispy bacon bits, or fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 305kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 19g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg

