
What are Polish Meat-filled Soup Dumplings (Kołduny)?
Kołduny are a type of dumpling that originates from Eastern European cuisine, particularly popular in Poland and Belarus. They are similar to pierogi but are typically smaller and filled with a meat mixture.
Kołduny are often served in a clear broth, such as Rosół (chicken soup), making them a satisfying and warming dish.
Why I Love This Kołduny Recipe?
I love Kołduny because they are a comforting and flavorful dish that brings a taste of traditional Polish cuisine to my table.
The tender soup dumplings filled with savory meat, combined with the rich broth, create a perfect harmony of flavors. This dish is also versatile and can be enjoyed as a main course or a hearty appetizer.
Key Ingredients
Dumpling Dough: Made from flour, water, egg, and a pinch of salt.
Meat Filling: A mixture of ground pork or beef, finely chopped onion, garlic, and seasonings.
Broth: Typically a clear chicken broth, such as Rosół, to serve the dumplings.
Sour Cream: Optional, for serving.
Chives: Freshly chopped, for garnish.
How to Store?
Store any leftover Kołduny in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the broth before serving. These dumplings can also be frozen for up to 2 months; simply freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
How to Serve?
Serve Kołduny hot in a bowl of clear broth, such as Rosół. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped chives for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad on the side.
Expert Tips
Making the Dough: Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and rested before rolling it out to achieve a tender and elastic texture. Adding an egg is essential, for the dough to keep its structure.
Filling: Use a fine grind for the meat filling and season it well for the best flavor. A mix of pork and beef works well.
Sealing Dumplings: Seal the dumplings tightly to prevent them from opening during cooking. Use a bit of water to help seal the edges.
Broth: Use a rich, homemade broth for the best flavor. Rosół, a traditional Polish chicken soup, is an excellent choice.
Different Filling Instructions
Traditional Meat Filling: Mix ground pork or beef with finely chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of marjoram.
Mushroom Filling: Substitute meat with finely chopped mushrooms sautéed with onions and garlic.
Cheese Filling: Use a mixture of farmer’s cheese, egg yolk, and a pinch of salt for a vegetarian option.
Spinach and Ricotta: Combine cooked spinach with ricotta cheese, garlic, and nutmeg.
Print
Polish Meat-filled Soup Dumplings (Kołduny)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Tender Polish Meat-filled Soup Dumplings, also known as Kołduny, are filled with savory meat and served in a flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 large egg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 lb ground pork or beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp marjoram
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the egg and warm water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the ground meat, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and marjoram until well combined.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Fill the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
- Cook the Dumplings: Bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil in a large pot. Add the dumplings and cook until they float to the surface and the filling is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the broth and dumplings into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Notes
Ensure the dumplings are well-sealed to prevent them from opening during cooking.
For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of pork and beef for the filling.
If using store-bought broth, add some fresh herbs and vegetables to enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dumplings
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 20g
Nutrition Information
This website offers estimated nutritional details, which may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
FAQ
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dumplings in advance and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Rosół for the broth?
You can use any clear chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer. Homemade broth will provide the best flavor.
Can I use different types of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the dumplings from sticking together?
Ensure that the dumplings are not overcrowded in the pot and stir gently during cooking to prevent sticking.


