Pierogi

Pierogi (/pɪˈroʊɡi/ pirr-OH-ghee [pjɛˈrɔɡʲi] ^ⓘ; sg. pieróg [ˈpjɛruk] ^ⓘ) are filled dumplings made by wrapping unleavened dough around a filling and cooked in boiling water. They are occasionally flavored with a savory or sweet garnish. Typical fillings include potato, cheese, quark, sauerkraut, ground meat, mushrooms, fruits, or berries. Savory pierogi are often served with a topping of sour cream, fried onions, or both.

Pierogi varieties are associated with the cuisines of Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Dumplings most likely originated in Asia and came to Europe via trade in the Middle Ages. However, the dish itself dates back to at least 1682, when Poland's first cookbook, Compendium ferculorum, albo Zebranie potraw, was published. The widely used English name pierogi was derived from Polish. In Ukraine and parts of Canada they are known under their Ukrainian name – varenyky, or, in some dialects, pyrohy. In Russia, this dish is referred to as vareniki (usually when filled with cheese, potatoes, or fruit) or pelmeni (generally when filled with meat, mushrooms, or cabbage). Pierogi are also popular in modern-day American cuisine where they are sometimes known under different local names.