There’s nothing quite like the joy of cooking, and one of my favourite treats would have to be perogies (or pierogi). Perogies are very common in Saskatchewan where I grew up, due to the large Ukranian population, so much so that I was very surprised not to find them when I left Saskatchewan for other provinces.

It’s worth noting that perogies are, in the local Canadian Ukranian dialect, called pyrohy (hence the name), but that in standard Ukranian, they are called varenyky, and that pyrohy actually refers to a different dish entirely. This can confuse people originally from Russia or the Ukrane, since we sound like we don’t know what we’re talking about, and that’s fair enough. I mean, if you went to Moscow and someone offered you pancakes but served you toast, you’d be confused too.

Now, without further ado, my no-fail, from-scratch perogie recipie. Enjoy!

You will need
  • Nothing! It’s from scratch!
Directions
  1. First, you will need to get a job. You can often find these in the local paper, or check Craigslist. Work the job for 2-50 weeks until you have saved up about $1500-2000. Be aware that this may take longer than first planned due to unexpected expenses, bills, lawsuits, or pregnancies.
  2. Buy a stove. I suggest a halogen or gas range, but electric will suffice in a pinch. These can cost up to $1000 or more, but you may be able to find a deal in your area, so again, check Craigslist and don’t be afraid to be frugal.
  3. Buy some cookware. I suggest buying a set. Copper cookware conducts heat very well and looks great, but any cookware will do.
  4. Buy some utensils and place settings. You can get both for about $100. In a pinch, you can substitute a single bowl for the place setting.
  5. Buy a package of frozen perogies. My preference is Safeway-brand potato and cottage cheese, but again, this is a matter of preference. I recommend against Cheemo, and not just because of the obvious Chernobyl jokes.
  6. Boil water in the largest pot from your cookware set.
  7. When the water is boiling, add as many perogies as you think you can eat. Stir them a little, and then leave them in until they float.
  8. Once they’re floating, give them another minute or two, and then take them out. Place them into one of the bowls you’ve purchased.
  9. Enjoy!

Update: Credit where it’s due; clarification on ‘pierogi’ vs. ‘varenyky’ lifted from the Wikipedia article on pierogi.