Small half-moon dumplings filled with fresh cheese, potatoes, or cherries, boiled until tender and served with sour cream and melted butter.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: shallow ceramic bowl
Garnishes: sour cream, melted butter, fresh dill
Accompaniments: pickled vegetables
Instructions
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1
Make dough by combining flour, egg, water, and salt. Knead for eight minutes until smooth and elastic. Rest covered for thirty minutes.
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2
Mix crumbled brânză with egg yolk, sugar, and salt for the filling. The mixture should hold together when squeezed.
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3
Roll dough thin on a floured surface. Cut circles using a glass or round cutter about eight centimeters across.
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4
Place a teaspoon of filling on each circle. Fold in half and press edges firmly with a fork to seal completely.
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5
Boil dumplings in salted water for five minutes after they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.
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6
Arrange on a warm platter, drizzle with melted butter and serve with generous dollops of sour cream and fresh dill.
Did You Know?
Making coltunasi is traditionally a family affair in Moldova, with everyone from grandchildren to grandparents sitting around the table filling and folding dumplings together.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- large pot
- rolling pin
- mixing bowl
- fork
Garnishing
sour cream, melted butter, fresh dill
Accompaniments
pickled vegetables
The Story Behind Coltunasi
Coltunasi are Moldova's answer to the vast family of Eastern European filled dumplings. While similar to Polish pierogi or Ukrainian varenyky, Moldovan coltunasi have their own distinct character, particularly in the use of fresh sheep cheese filling. The tradition of making these dumplings goes back centuries, and they remain one of the most comforting foods in Moldovan cuisine. Villages throughout Moldova each have their own preferred fillings and folding techniques.
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