Cepelinai

Cepelinai, also known as didžkukuliai, are delectable dumplings originating from Lithuania. Crafted from a blend of grated and riced potatoes, these dumplings can be stuffed with a variety of delicious fillings such as ground meat, dry curd cheese, or mushrooms. They hold a significant place in Lithuanian cuisine and are often enjoyed as a main course.

The name "cepelinai" derives from their shape, which resembles a Zeppelin airship. Depending on the region in Lithuania, you may notice that the size of these dumplings varies. In western Lithuania, they tend to be larger, while in the eastern part, they are typically smaller. In the Samogitia region, they even have a different name, calling them "cepelinā."

Once boiled, cepelinai are typically served with a rich sour cream sauce and sprinkled with crispy bacon bits or pork rinds, making them even more irresistible. In the Suwałki Region, which was formerly part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, a similar dish called "kartacz" is cherished as a staple of Podlachia's cuisine.

For enthusiasts of dumplings, other European varieties worth exploring include Polish pyzy, Swedish kroppkaka, Acadian poutine râpée, Norwegian raspeball, German Kartoffelklöße, and Italian canederli. Each of these variations offers its unique twist, but they all share the comforting, hearty goodness that makes dumplings a beloved favorite worldwide.