Russian Vareniki with Sauerkraut


Vareneki is a Russian classic dish that takes some time to make, but worth it! there is variety of fillings you can use,the most popular is with potato and onion,but this one is my personal favorite.for the dough I use the kitchen aid stand mixer,it’s much easier and saves the time.

dough:
2/3 cups milk or buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 cups warm water
1 1/2 tsp salt
7 cups plus 6 tbsp unbleached all-purpose flour

Combine and whisk together milk,eggs,salt and water. Add 4 cups flour and using a dough hook,mix it until well combined. then add 1 cup at a time for the rest of the three cups. If the dough is still sticky add flour 1 tablespoon at a time and continue mixing or about 3-5 minutes.place is under a bowl or plastic wrap.

Sauerkraut filling:
2 cups sauerkraut ( here is the recipe http://everydayrussian.com/?p=492)
1 onion finely chopped
fresh cracked pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil

Heat oil in a frying pan on  medium heat. add onions and cook for 2-3 minutes.add sauerkraut and pepper.cook stirring occasionally for 8-10 minutes.

Caramelized onions:

1/2 onion finely chopped
1 stick of butter

Fry  onions with butter on med-low heat until golden brown.

Directions:
Cut the dough into 6 pieces. With one piece at a time make a thin log. Cut the log into about 1/2 inch pieces. Dust the rolling pin and the surface with flour. Press down the pieces into a plate with flour (both sides,making a round shape.)
Roll the pieces in to a 1/8 thick rounds.Place about 1 teaspoon of the filling in the middle and fold it making a semi circle the looks like a smile.Place vareneki on well floured pan.

To Cook:
Bring a pot of water to a boil.Add salt and vareniki one at a time.mix carefully. Cook uncovered until vareneki will float on top then cook for another 3 minutes.Drain the water.

Serve with caramelized onions and butter. Sour cream if desired.