Style: March 01, 2019

STYLE | food 89
Definition:
Pirogi, pirohy, pyrohy, varenyky are filled
dumplings made by wrapping unleavened
dough around a savoury or sweet filling
then cooking in boiling water or panfrying.
Pierogi, which consist of noodle
dough and have to be cooked in boiling
water, are associated with the Central
and Eastern European kitchens where
they are considered national dishes. Their
variant varenyky and pyrohy are popular in
Ukrainian and Russian cuisine. The dumplings
may be served with a topping, such as
melted butter, sour cream or fried onion or
a combination of those ingredients.
Where to find them
Kate’s pierogies can be found at The
Pierogi Joint, her café on 7a Nuttall Drive,
Hillsborough (enter from Desi Street) and
a variety of local markets, including the
Christchurch Farmers’ Market. She has
regular nights at Level One in New Brighton
(1/217 Marine Parade).
Making pierogies
Making the perfect pierogi takes skill and
dedication. Not only has Kate nailed down
the pinching technique, she also loves
sharing her love of pierogi by hosting regular
cooking classes. Invite your friends over for
a few fun-filled hours learning the art of
pierogi making and testing out new fillings.
Sweet or Savoury
Growing up, we regularly had savoury
pierogies, often with potato, potato and
cheese, sauerkraut or prune (yes, prune)
filling. When we visited the motherland for
the first time, I was surprised to see sweet
pierogies a permanent fixture at the dinner
table. Blueberry and cherry pierogies were
popular, but Kate is offering more gourmet
options like apple pie and sweet cheese
vanilla custard (served with ice cream,
caramel and dusted with cinnamon!)