Introduction:
Polish Strawberry Pierogi, or Pierogi z Truskawkami, are a beloved summertime treat in Poland, combining the tender, delicate dough of traditional pierogi with the sweet, juicy filling of fresh strawberries. These sweet dumplings are often served with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of sugar and make for a delicious dessert or even a light meal. Perfect for strawberry season, these homemade pierogi capture the sweetness of summer in every bite.
Ingredients and Quantities:
Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar (adjust depending on sweetness of strawberries)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to help absorb excess moisture)
For Serving:
- Sour cream, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt
- Sugar or powdered sugar, for sprinkling
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor, but if fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries can be used (just make sure to thaw and drain them first).
- To prevent the dough from sticking while rolling, dust your surface with flour generously.
- Pinch the edges tightly when sealing the pierogi to avoid leaks while boiling.
- For an added treat, try serving the pierogi with a vanilla cream sauce or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
How to Make and Instructions:
1. Prepare the dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the egg and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the warm water, stirring constantly until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the strawberry filling:
- In a bowl, mix the quartered strawberries with sugar and cornstarch. The cornstarch helps absorb the strawberry juices to prevent the pierogi from becoming too wet inside.
3. Roll out the dough:
- After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter or a glass (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough.
4. Assemble the pierogi:
- Place a small spoonful of the strawberry filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges or pinch with your fingers.
5. Cook the pierogi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully add the pierogi to the water in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pierogi for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes before removing them with a slotted spoon.
- Transfer the cooked pierogi to a plate and drizzle with melted butter to prevent them from sticking together.
6. Serve:
- Serve the strawberry pierogi warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or whipped cream. Sprinkle with sugar or powdered sugar for added sweetness. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Description:
Polish Strawberry Pierogi are sweet dumplings filled with ripe strawberries, wrapped in soft, tender dough, and boiled to perfection. Each bite bursts with the freshness of summer, enhanced by the creamy richness of sour cream or whipped cream on top. These pierogi are a delightful combination of sweet and tart, perfect for dessert or a light, sweet meal.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Polish Strawberry Pierogi (Pierogi z Truskawkami) are a delicious way to enjoy the sweetness of summer strawberries in a traditional Polish dish. Whether served as a dessert or a light main dish, these sweet pierogi are comforting and satisfying. Their simplicity makes them easy to prepare, and they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends. For the ultimate indulgence, serve with a generous spoonful of cream and a sprinkle of sugar, and enjoy the flavors of Poland right at home!