Blueberry Dumplings with Kefir Dough
The most delicious, beautiful, fluffy dumplings for the whole family! Blueberry dumplings with kefir are a perfect summer dish when berries are in abundance. The kefir dough doesn’t tear, keeping the filling inside. It’s wonderfully elastic, soft, and airy.
Updated : 31 October, 2025
Easy
More than 1 hour.
Preparation
Step 1
The fat content of the kefir doesn’t matter. You may need a different amount of flour depending on the dough’s consistency. Fresh or frozen blueberries work fine. If using frozen ones, don’t defrost them first. Rinse and dry the berries on paper towels. Adjust sugar to your taste.
Step 2
Warm the kefir slightly (I used a small saucepan over low heat). Don’t overheat it or it will curdle. Add sugar, salt, and baking soda, and stir. Since the kefir is warm, everything will dissolve faster.
Step 3
A reaction will start immediately between the acid in the kefir and the soda’s alkalinity - bubbles will form. This makes the dough soft and fluffy. Let the kefir sit for 5 minutes, then pour it into a mixing bowl. Add the egg and whisk.
Step 4
Gradually add sifted flour to the kefir mixture. Sifting not only removes debris but also adds air, improving texture. Mix after each addition - first with a whisk, then by hand.
Step 5
Once the dough thickens, move it to a floured surface and knead. Add more flour if it sticks too much; stop once it becomes smooth and manageable.
Step 6
The dough should be soft, smooth, and elastic. Form it into a ball, cover with a towel, and let rest for 30 minutes. This allows gluten to develop, making it easier to work with.
Step 7
Divide the dough into three parts for easier rolling. Roll one part into a sheet about 4-5 mm (⅙–⅕ inch) thick - not too thin, so it won’t tear during boiling.
Step 8
Cut circles using a glass or cutter. Don’t make them too small - you’ll want room for berries.
Step 9
Place a teaspoon of blueberries and a teaspoon of sugar in the center of each circle. This amount makes the dumplings mildly sweet. You can sprinkle extra sugar when serving.
Step 10
Fold the circle in half and pinch the edges to seal.
Step 11
Optionally, crimp the edges decoratively - it looks nice and helps prevent leaking.
Step 12
To cook: bring a large pot of water to a boil. Dumplings need space to float freely, so cook them in batches. Add a little salt. Drop the dumplings in, stir to prevent sticking, and once they float, cook 3-5 minutes, depending on size.
Step 13
Remove with a slotted spoon and serve immediately. They’re delicious with ice cream or any sweet cream sauce. Enjoy!