Вергуни

Вергуни

Вергуни (ver-HOO-ny)

Ukrainian Fried Pastry Twists

Prep Time 45 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 244 kcal

Light, crispy fried dough twists dusted with powdered sugar — a beloved carnival treat that shatters at first bite.

Nutrition & Info

240 kcal per serving
Protein 4.0g
Carbs 30.0g
Fat 12.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten ⚠ eggs ⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

deep pot for frying rolling pin slotted spoon

Presentation Guide

Vessel: doily-lined platter

Garnishes: powdered sugar

Accompaniments: tea, coffee

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix flour, egg yolks, sour cream, sugar, softened butter, vodka, and salt into a firm dough. Knead 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Rest dough covered for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Roll out very thin (2mm). Cut into 3x8cm rectangles. Cut a slit in the center and pull one end through to form a twist.

  4. 4

    Heat oil to 175°C (350°F) in a deep pot.

  5. 5

    Fry twists in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and puffed.

  6. 6

    Drain on paper towels and dust generously with powdered sugar while warm.

💡

Did You Know?

Verhuny are also called 'khrustyky' (crunchy ones) and are the Ukrainian version of angel wings, eaten during Maslenitsa before Lenten fasting begins.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • deep pot for frying
  • rolling pin
  • slotted spoon

Garnishing

powdered sugar

Accompaniments

tea, coffee

The Story Behind Вергуни

Verhuny belong to the pan-European family of fried carnival pastries, adopted into Ukrainian tradition as a Maslenitsa treat before the Lenten fast. The vodka in the dough is a baker's secret — the alcohol evaporates during frying, creating extra-light, blistered layers.

Traditionally made in large batches by women gathering together before Lent, verhuny-making was a social event as much as a culinary one.

These delicate pastries remain a beloved treat at Ukrainian celebrations, bakeries, and home kitchens, especially during the pre-Lenten season and holiday gatherings.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed maslenitsa, celebrations 📜 Origins: 18th century

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