When Irish actor Jack Gleeson, who played Joffrey Baratheon on the HBO television series Game of Thrones, came to Ukraine to support Ukrainians, he was treated to varenyky. I feel you would also like to try Ukrainian potato varenyky with garlic.

So, if you have time to cook something delicious in your kitchen, spend it on varenyky (pierogi). Your household will run into the kitchen to find out what you are doing there.

The aroma of potatoes with garlic is like coffee in the morning but for dinner. So, let’s not say too much. Just cook and surprise our relatives with a simple and hearty dish.

Directions

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  1. Put salted water in a pan and boil it. Add the peeled potatoes and garlic there. Cook for 35-50 minutes, depending on the type of potato, until soft. Drain the water and grind the mixture with a piece of butter.

  2. While the potatoes are cooking, let’s make the dough. Pour the egg into the kefir, add salt, sugar, and soda, and mix well. Gradually add the flour and mix the dough well. Cover with a towel and leave to rest.

  3. While the dough is resting and the potatoes are cooking, fry the onions. Take frying oil or lard and fry sliced onions until golden brown. Then remove it from heat, and leave it.

  4. Take the dough and roll small balls in your hands. Flatten the balls with your hands and get a flat circle with a diameter of 4-5 cm and a thickness of 0.5 cm. Put the filling inside and seal the edges of the dough to get thick boats.

  5. While molding dumplings, take a pan and pour salted water there. You can add your favorite spice. When the water boils, carefully lower the dumplings into the boiling water one at a time. Let them cook under the lid for 20 minutes.
  6. Carefully remove varenyky from the pan and place them on a plate. Top with fried onions and serve. The result is about 20 medium-sized ones.

Benefits of Potato Varenyky with Garlic

Ukrainian potato varenyky with garlic offer more than just a satisfying meal—they bring comfort and warmth to your table. The combination of soft, pillowy dumplings filled with creamy mashed potatoes and fragrant garlic creates a dish that feels like a hug on a plate.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make something special with simple ingredients. Potatoes, garlic, and onions are affordable and easy to find, yet they come together in a way that feels indulgent.

Cooking varenyky is not just about the final dish—it’s about the experience. Rolling out the dough, shaping each dumpling, and sealing the edges is a fun and rewarding process.

Beyond tasty and traditional, this dish is also hearty and filling, making it a great choice for busy days. The combination of carbohydrates from the potatoes and protein from the dough keeps you energized for hours.

Serving these dumplings with crispy fried onions or a dollop of sour cream takes them to the next level. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the pot or pan-fried the next day, they remain just as irresistible.

Vareniki – Ukrainian Potato Dumplings
Video by The Cooking Foodie

Risks of this Recipe

While Ukrainian potato varenyky with garlic are a delicious and comforting dish, there are a few potential risks to consider. The high carbohydrate content from the potatoes and dough can be heavy on digestion, especially for those sensitive to starchy foods.

Another factor to keep in mind is the use of garlic and onions, which can be irritating to some people’s digestive systems. Those with acid reflux, gastritis, or sensitive stomachs may experience discomfort after eating dishes with strong alliums.

For individuals watching their calorie intake, varenyky can be quite filling but also high in energy. Adding butter, fried onions, or creamy toppings increases the calorie count, which may not be ideal for those on a low-calorie diet.

Food allergies and intolerances should also be considered, especially for those who are sensitive to gluten. Traditional varenyky dough contains wheat flour, making it unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Lastly, proper storage and handling of homemade varenyky are important to prevent foodborne illnesses. If left at room temperature for too long, the filling can spoil, particularly in warm conditions. To stay safe, always refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat them thoroughly before serving.