Latvian Chicken and Dill Dumplings
Vistas Pelmeņi ar Dillēm
Tender chicken and fresh dill are combined to create flavorful dumplings, often served in a light broth or as a side dish. This recipe offers a comforting taste of traditional Latvian home cooking.

🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Cooked chicken, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 Egg
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 4 cups Chicken broth (for serving, optional)
- 2 tbsp Butter (for sautéing, optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked chicken, chopped fresh dill, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Ensure the chicken is finely chopped to create a cohesive filling. - 2
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the chicken mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
💡 Tip: Add flour slowly to avoid making the dough too stiff. - 3
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Alternatively, if serving in broth, heat the chicken broth in a pot.
💡 Tip: Using well-salted water will help season the dumplings from the inside. - 4
Using two spoons, carefully drop small portions of the dough into the boiling water or simmering broth. The dumplings should be about the size of a large tablespoon.
💡 Tip: Dipping spoons in hot water before scooping the dough can prevent sticking. - 5
Cook the dumplings for about 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. If cooking in broth, they will absorb some of the broth's flavor.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary. - 6
Remove the cooked dumplings with a slotted spoon. If serving as a side dish, you can lightly sauté them in butter for a slightly crispy exterior.
💡 Tip: Sautéing in butter adds a rich flavor and a pleasant texture contrast. - 7
Serve the dumplings hot, either in their cooking broth, with a side of sour cream, or as a component of a larger meal.
💡 Tip: Garnish with extra fresh dill for a burst of freshness.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can use leftover roasted chicken for this recipe.
- ✓If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to make it tough.
- ✓For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with finely chopped firm tofu or mushrooms.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
- Incorporate finely chopped leeks or onions into the dumpling mixture.
- Serve with a dollop of Latvian sour cream (skābais krējums).