RecipesBelarusMushroom and Potato Zrazy

Mushroom and Potato Zrazy

Savory potato patties filled with a deeply flavorful mixture of sautéed mushrooms and onions. These are a hearty and comforting Belarusian classic.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Mushroom and Potato Zrazy - Belarus traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and cut into equal pieces)
  • 160 g Butter(unsalted, divided)
  • 140 ml Milk
  • 2 large Eggs(divided)
  • 2 large Egg yolks(beaten)
  • 320 g Plain flour(plus more for dusting)
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 640 g Mixed mushrooms(preferably fresh shiitake and button, finely chopped)
  • 3 medium Onions(finely chopped)
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Boil the peeled potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain well.

  2. 2

    Mash the drained potatoes with 80g of butter and the milk. Stir to combine. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the potatoes are well-drained to avoid a gummy texture.
  3. 3

    Prepare the filling: Melt the remaining 80g of butter in a pan. Add the finely chopped onions and mushrooms. Season with salt and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, until the mixture is dark brown and dry, stirring occasionally.

    💡 Tip: Stirring frequently helps to achieve a deep, rich flavor.
  4. 4

    In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, 2 whole eggs, beaten egg yolks, and flour. Season with pepper. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.

  5. 5

    Form the potato mixture into balls of equal size, about the size of a small egg. Flatten each ball into a palm-sized disc.

    💡 Tip: Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking.
  6. 6

    Place a portion of the mushroom filling onto the center of each potato disc. Fold the edges of the potato dough over the filling to enclose it completely, forming a well-sealed patty.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the filling is completely enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during frying.
  7. 7

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry 3-4 zrazy at a time for about 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.

    💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
  8. 8

    Remove the zrazy from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with a dip or sauce of your choice, such as sour cream or tomato salsa.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a vegetarian option, ensure your butter is vegetarian.
  • The mushroom filling can be made ahead of time and refrigerated.
  • Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a light vinaigrette.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or marjoram to the mushroom filling.
  • For a richer potato dough, add a tablespoon of butter.

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