Ukrainian Kefir Verguny Fried Pastry Twists

Twisted Ukrainian kefir pastries fried until golden and dusted with sugar.

Total 45 minMakes 20 pastries
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These kefir verguny are lightly sweet fried pastries shaped into twisted ribbons. Mix a soft dough, roll it evenly and fry a few pieces at a time until golden; drain them briefly and dust with powdered sugar. Whisk eggs, sugar, salt and kefir. Stir in baking soda. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Cover and rest dough 15 minutes. Roll on a lightly floured surface to about 5 mm thick. Cut into 10 to 12 cm strips. Make a slit in each strip and pull one end through to form a twist. Heat oil in a heavy pot to 175°C (350°F). Fry a few pieces at a time, turning once, until golden on both sides and cooked through.

Recipe card

Ukrainian Kefir Verguny Fried Pastry Twists

Prep 25 minCook 20 minTotal 45 minYield 20 pastries
Only numbered ingredient amounts change.

Equipment: Measuring tools, mixing bowl and suitable pan

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Mix dough

    Whisk eggs, sugar, salt and kefir. Stir in baking soda. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.

  2. Rest and roll

    Cover and rest dough 15 minutes. Roll on a lightly floured surface to about 5 mm thick.

  3. Shape

    Cut into 10 to 12 cm strips. Make a slit in each strip and pull one end through to form a twist.

  4. Fry

    Heat oil in a heavy pot to 175°C (350°F). Fry a few pieces at a time, turning once, until golden on both sides and cooked through.

  5. Finish

    Drain on a rack or paper towels. Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar.

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender and evenly heated as described.

Tips

  • Add flour gradually; stop when dough is soft, not stiff.
  • Rest dough before rolling.
  • Keep pastry thickness even so pieces fry uniformly.
  • Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.

Troubleshooting

  • If the mixture is too thick, add liquid gradually.
  • If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

  • Choose compatible alternatives for dietary needs.
  • Use a neutral cooking oil if needed.

Variations

  • Adjust seasonings to taste.
  • Add a suitable seasonal ingredient.

Serving suggestions

  • Dust with powdered sugar while slightly warm.
  • Serve with fruit preserves.
  • Pair with tea or coffee.
  • Offer a bowl of fresh berries.

Make ahead

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate perishable ingredients; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains wheat, egg and dairy. Hot oil can burn; use a thermometer, keep the pot no more than half full and never leave it unattended.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate perishable ingredients; finish close to serving.

How should I store kefir verguny?

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

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