Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dish, look no further than Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling, also known as Kluski Mordony. This traditional Małopolskie delicacy is a popular Polish comfort food that will transport you to the heart of Poland. These dumplings are made from a simple dough of mashed potatoes and flour, filled with a delicious mixture of cottage cheese and onions.

Kluski Mordony has a wonderful combination of flavors. The soft and fluffy potato dough pairs perfectly with the creamy cottage cheese filling, while the sautéed onions add a hint of sweetness. These dumplings are not only delicious but also versatile – they can be enjoyed as a main course or served as a side dish alongside your favorite meat or vegetable dishes.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Poland and holds cultural significance. It’s often prepared for special occasions or family gatherings, bringing people together around the dinner table. Whether you have Polish roots or simply want to try something new, Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling is worth adding to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• Potatoes (1 kg)
• Flour (300g)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cottage cheese (200g)
• Onions (2 medium-sized, diced)
• Oil for frying

Note: For those with dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free flour or substitute part of the flour with cornstarch. Additionally, if you prefer a different cheese, you can experiment with alternatives like ricotta or farmer’s cheese.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • Peel the potatoes and cut them into smaller pieces to reduce cooking time.
   • In a large pot, add enough water to cover the potatoes and bring it to a boil.
   • Cook the potatoes until they are soft when pierced with a fork.
   • Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
   • Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a fork until there are no lumps remaining.
   • Once cooled, transfer the mashed potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
   • Add flour gradually while kneading until a smooth dough forms. The ratio of potatoes to flour should be approximately 1:3 to achieve the right consistency.
   • Season the dough with salt, adding more or less according to your taste preferences.

2. Make the Filling:

   • In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat.
   • Add diced onions and sauté until golden brown and caramelized.
   • In a bowl, combine cottage cheese and caramelized onions. Mix well until fully combined.
   • Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.

3. Form and Cook Kluski:

   • Divide the dough into equal parts, taking small handfuls at a time.
   • Flatten each piece of dough in the palm of your hand to form a small round shape.
   • Place a spoonful of the cottage cheese and onion filling in the center of each flattened dough piece.
   • Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them together to seal. Roll gently to shape into a dumpling.
   • In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt to season the water.
   • Gently drop the kluski into the boiling water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Do this in batches if necessary.
   • Cook until the dumplings float to the surface, indicating that they are cooked through. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
   • Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes to ensure that they are cooked evenly and thoroughly. Adjust cooking time based on personal preference for dumpling texture – longer cooking results in firmer dumplings while shorter cooking results in softer dumplings.

4. Serve:

   • Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cooked kluski from the water, allowing excess water to drain off.
   • Transfer them to serving plates or bowls.
   • Serve hot with optional garnishes such as sour cream or sprinkled fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top for added flavor and presentation.

Serving Information

Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling can be served in various ways, depending on your preferences and the occasion. Here are a few suggestions:

• As a main course: Enjoy a generous portion of kluski as the star of the meal, accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables.
• As a side dish: Serve the dumplings alongside roasted meats, grilled sausages, or stews for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• With condiments: Offer sour cream or melted butter as dipping sauces for an extra creamy touch.
• For breakfast: Enjoy leftovers for breakfast by reheating them in a skillet until crispy on the outside and serving with eggs.

To enhance the presentation of this dish, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top. The vibrant green color adds visual appeal to the plate. Pair Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling with your favorite Polish beverages such as Żubrówka (Bison Grass Vodka) or Polish beer to complete your culinary experience.

FAQs and Reviews

Here are some frequently asked questions about Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling:

1. Can I freeze the dumplings?
   
   Yes, you can freeze these dumplings for later consumption. Once cooked, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply boil them again for a few minutes until heated through.
2. Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?
   
   Absolutely! While cottage cheese is traditional, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as ricotta or farmer’s cheese to add a unique twist to your dumplings.
3. Can I make the dough in advance?
   
   It’s best to prepare the dough just before cooking the dumplings. If you make it too far in advance, the potatoes may release excess moisture, resulting in a sticky dough that is difficult to work with.
4. Can I reheat leftovers?
   
   Yes, you can reheat leftover dumplings by gently frying them in a skillet until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. This method will help maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.

We would love to hear about your experiences with making Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling! If you have any variations or tips, please share them below.

Conclusion

Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling (Kluski Mordony) are a delicious and comforting Polish dish that brings together the flavors of mashed potatoes, creamy cottage cheese, and sautéed onions. Whether you’re looking for a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish, these dumplings are sure to satisfy.

The process of making Kluski Mordony is simple but rewarding. From preparing the dough to forming the dumplings and cooking them to perfection, each step is an opportunity to create something special. The combination of textures and flavors will delight your taste buds and transport you to Poland.

So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure with Dumplings with Cottage Cheese and Onion Filling. Whether you enjoy them for a family dinner or impress your friends with an authentic Polish dish, these kluski are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.