Kreplach
Called Jewish wontons or raviolis, kreplach are pasta dumplings, usually triangular in shape, filled with minced meat, onion-spiced potatoes, or cheese. Kreplach carries a lot of lofty symbolism; its triangular shape represents Judaism's three patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Equally lofty: the Jewish momma who can roll her kreplach dough to optimum thinness (so that, according to Sam Levenson, "a tempting bit of their buried treasure should show through"). If the wrappers are not paper-thin, your kreplach will taste like "craplach." However, though we've included wrappers in this recipe, there's really no reason to knock yourself out making them. Just purchase wonton wrappers in a Chinese food store or supermarket, and making kreplach becomes a cinch. There's even a kosher brand called Nasoya, available in many supermarkets; look for it near the tofu.
Called Jewish wontons or raviolis, kreplach are pasta dumplings, usually triangular in shape, filled with minced meat, onion-spiced potatoes, or cheese. Kreplach carries a lot of lofty symbolism; its triangular shape represents Judaism's three patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Equally lofty: the Jewish momma who can roll her kreplach dough to optimum thinness (so that, according to Sam Levenson, "a tempting bit of their buried treasure should show through"). If the wrappers are not paper-thin, your kreplach will taste like "craplach." However, though we've included wrappers in this recipe, there's really no reason to knock yourself out making them. Just purchase wonton wrappers in a Chinese food store or supermarket, and making kreplach becomes a cinch. There's even a kosher brand called Nasoya, available in many supermarkets; look for it near the tofu.
- Carbohydrate 14 g(5%)
- Cholesterol 38 mg(13%)
- Fat 3 g(5%)
- Fiber 1 g(2%)
- Protein 3 g(7%)
- Saturated Fat 1 g(4%)
- Sodium 116 mg(5%)
- Calories 100
Step-by-step
- Prepare 1 of the 3 fillings and refrigerate before you begin preparing dough:
- Meat Filling:
- Heat corn oil in a skillet; sauté onions until nicely browned, remove with a slotted spoon, and set aside. Add meat to the pan and sauté on high heat, stirring frequently until all meat is browned. Put the onions back in, and sauté with meat, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Let cool.
- In a bowl, thoroughly mix meat-onion mixture with all remaining ingredients.
- Potato Filling:
- Heat corn oil in a skillet, and sauté onions until nicely browned. At the last minute, add garlic, which browns quickly.
- In a large bowl, combine onion-garlic mixture with all other ingredients, and blend thoroughly.
- Cheese Filling:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl, and blend thoroughly.
- Make wrappers and cook:
- Sift flour and 1 teaspoon salt into a large bowl, and create a well in the center.
- Pour eggs into the well, and, wetting your hands, knead into a dough. Add water, and continue kneading until dough is smooth. Roll dough into a ball, place it in a bowl, cover the bowl with a damp cloth, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- On a well-floured board, roll dough as close as possible to paper-thinness with a floured rolling pin. Cut into 2-inch squares. You can roll each individual square a bit thinner before you fill it. Have bowl with beaten egg, a teaspoon, and filling at hand.
- Place a flatware teaspoon of filling in the center of the square and fold diagonally to create a triangle. Seal sides with egg mixture.
- Bring a pot of water to a vigorous boil, add 1 tablespoon salt, drop in the kreplach, and cook for 20 minutes. Serve in chicken soup or, for dairy fillings, with sour cream and fried onions.
Kreplach: A Taste of Tradition
As a busy working mom, time is always of the essence. Finding recipes that are both delicious and manageable is a constant quest, and Kreplach fit that bill perfectly. While the name might sound exotic, these little dumplings are actually quite simple to make, especially if you cheat a little (and let's be honest, who doesn't?). The recipe's description of using store-bought wonton wrappers is my saving grace. Instead of battling with homemade dough, I can focus on creating the flavorful fillings, which are incredibly versatile.
Meat, potato, or cheese – the choice is yours! The meat filling is a classic, reminiscent of comforting family meals. The potato filling offers a lighter, vegetarian option that’s equally satisfying. And for a quick weeknight dinner, the cheese filling is a pure delight – cheesy, creamy, and utterly delicious. I've even experimented with adding spinach to the cheese filling for a boost of nutrients. The beauty of kreplach is in its adaptability.
Beyond the convenience, Kreplach holds a special place in my heart. The triangular shape, symbolic of Judaism's patriarchs, adds a layer of cultural richness to the culinary experience. It’s a dish that connects me to my heritage while providing a delicious meal for my family. Making kreplach isn’t just about cooking; it's about creating a meaningful experience. It’s about sharing a piece of tradition with loved ones. And that’s something truly special.
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
Despite its rich history and symbolism, Kreplach is surprisingly easy to incorporate into a busy week. The fillings can be prepared in advance, and the assembly process, while involving multiple steps, is relatively straightforward. I usually prep the fillings on Sunday, storing them in the fridge until I’m ready to assemble the kreplach. Then, on a busy weeknight, it takes less than 30 minutes to assemble and cook them. The result? A comforting, flavorful meal that feels far more special than a typical weeknight dinner.
I love serving my Kreplach in a warm, comforting chicken soup. The dumplings soak up the broth beautifully, and the contrasting textures and flavors make for a truly satisfying meal. For the cheese filling, I sometimes forgo the soup and serve the kreplach with a dollop of sour cream and crispy fried onions – a delightful twist that adds a satisfying crunch.
More than Just a Recipe; It’s a Story
Beyond the practical aspects, Kreplach represents more to me than just a quick and tasty meal. It's a reminder of my heritage, a nod to my family's history, and a link to the generations who came before me. The act of creating these little dumplings is a form of meditation, a way to connect with my roots and to share a piece of myself with my family. It's a delicious journey through time and tradition, one kreplach at a time.
Tips and Tricks for Kreplach Success:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with fillings! Try adding different spices, vegetables, or cheeses to create your own signature kreplach.
- Use store-bought wonton wrappers to save time.
- Prepare the fillings in advance to streamline the weeknight cooking process.
- Boil the kreplach gently to prevent them from falling apart.
- Serve with your favorite soup or toppings to customize your meal.
Kreplach are more than just dumplings; they're a taste of tradition, a symbol of heritage, and a delicious way to bring family and friends together. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this culinary adventure. You might just discover a new family favorite!
