Ukrainian Buckwheat Dumplings with Mushrooms and Sour Cream
A comforting and rustic dish featuring tender buckwheat dumplings, pan-fried with earthy mushrooms and onions, and finished with a dollop of rich sour cream. This recipe celebrates the humble buckwheat, a staple in Ukrainian cuisine, transformed into a satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Buckwheat groats
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 Large onion, finely chopped
- 250 g Mushrooms (e.g., cremini or shiitake), sliced
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped
- to taste Sour cream, for serving
- to taste Black pepper, freshly ground
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the buckwheat groats under cold water. In a saucepan, combine buckwheat, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until water is absorbed and buckwheat is tender.
💡 Tip: Rinsing buckwheat removes any bitterness. Cook until just tender, not mushy. - 2
While the buckwheat cooks, melt 1 tbsp of butter with 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Don't rush the onions; slow cooking brings out their sweetness. - 3
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and are browned and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pan is not overcrowded to allow mushrooms to brown properly. - 4
Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter to the skillet with the onions and mushrooms. Once melted, add the cooked buckwheat. Stir gently to combine everything. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the buckwheat to lightly toast and absorb the flavors.
💡 Tip: This step helps to develop a slightly nutty flavor in the buckwheat. - 5
Stir in most of the fresh dill, reserving some for garnish. Season with black pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Adding dill at the end preserves its fresh aroma. - 6
Serve the buckwheat and mushroom mixture hot, topped with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
💡 Tip: This dish is also delicious with a side of pickled cucumbers.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a clove of minced garlic with the onions.
- ✓If you prefer a softer dumpling texture, you can mash some of the cooked buckwheat before mixing with the vegetables.
- ✓Leftovers can be reheated in a skillet with a little extra butter or oil.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add some cooked shredded chicken or pork for a more substantial meal.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
- For a vegetarian option, use olive oil instead of butter.