Varenyky

Varenyky are traditional Ukrainian dumplings of unleavened dough made from flour and water or milk, wrapped around sweet or savory fillings, and are regarded as one of the most emblematic dishes of Ukrainian cuisine, closely related to other Eastern European filled dumplings. Fillings vary regionally: potato and cheese or fruit in western Ukraine, cabbage or mushroom in central regions, and meat in the south, with plain potato-filled meatless versions traditionally prepared for Christmas Eve. The name derives from the Ukrainian verb meaning to boil, its primary cooking method, and the dumplings have long featured in Ukrainian folklore, ritual and literature as a festive food. Varenyky are typically served with sour cream, melted butter, fried onion or fried pork fat, or sugar for sweet versions, and while related to Polish pierogi, they are generally distinguished by a thinner, softer dough and a simpler, most often plain potato, filling.