koldunai

Koldunai are a traditional Lithuanian dish consisting of potato dumplings filled with minced meat. They are a hearty and popular staple in Lithuanian cuisine, often considered a comfort food. The preparation involves grating raw potatoes, mixing them with flour to form a dough, and then shaping small portions of the dough into a disc. This disc is then filled with a seasoned raw or cooked meat filling, typically pork or beef, and sealed to create a dumpling.

Once formed, koldunai are boiled in salted water until they float to the surface and are cooked through. They are usually served hot, often with a dollop of sour cream, fried onions, or bacon bits. Some variations include mushroom or cheese fillings, though meat is the most common. Koldunai are similar in concept to other Eastern European dumplings like pierogi or pelmeni, but their specific potato-based dough and typical meat filling distinguish them. They are a common dish in both home cooking and restaurants across Lithuania.