Virtinukai su Varške (Sweet Cheese Dumplings)
Virtinukai su varške are delightful, slightly sweet dumplings filled with farmer's cheese, often served as a dessert or a light meal. They are typically boiled and then pan-fried for a crispy exterior, then drizzled with sour cream and jam.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour(plus more for dusting)
- 1 large Eggs
- 400 g Farmer's cheese (tvarog or quark)(drained well)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar(for filling)
- 1 tsp Vanilla sugar or extract
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Butter(for frying)
- Sour cream(for serving)
- Jam or fruit preserves(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough: Whisk together flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and crack in the egg. Gradually mix in the flour to form a shaggy dough. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
- 2
Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the drained farmer's cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla sugar/extract. Mix well until smooth.
- 3
Assemble the virtinukai: Roll out the dough thinly on a floured surface. Cut into squares or circles (about 3 inches). Place a spoonful of cheese filling in the center of each piece. Fold the dough over to create a triangle or half-moon shape, sealing the edges firmly by pinching or using a fork.
- 4
Boil the virtinukai: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop the virtinukai into the boiling water in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain well.
- 5
Pan-fry (optional): Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the boiled virtinukai and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- 6
Serve: Serve the virtinukai warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a spoonful of jam or fruit preserves.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the farmer's cheese is well-drained to prevent a soggy filling.
- ✓Don't overfill the dumplings, as they can burst during cooking.
- ✓Pinch the edges very securely to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- ✓Pan-frying adds a delightful texture, but they are also delicious served simply boiled.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese filling for extra flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese if farmer's cheese is unavailable, ensuring it's not too wet.
- Serve with fresh berries instead of jam.