Kugelis 
(Lithuanian savory potato pudding)

Plated serving of kugelis
Image by edenpictures

A national dish of Lithuania, kugelis is a rich potato pudding that can be served on its own as a filling meal or as a side dish. Also known as bulviu plokstainis, or “flat potato dish,” you can serve kugelis with applesauce, lingonberry preserves or a big dollop of sour cream.

The potatoes should be grated on the large, not small, holes of a hand grater. Too fine of a grate will adversely affect the texture of the finished dish.

Kugelis

Course: Vegetables, CasserolesCuisine: Lithuania
Makes 4 to 6 servings

A national dish of Lithuania, kugelis is a rich potato pudding that can be served on its own as a filling meal or as a side dish.

Ingredients

  • Bacon, chopped — 5 slices

  • Onion, finely chopped — 1

  • Large potatoes, peeled and grated — 8

  • Eggs, beaten — 5

  • Hot milk or cream — 1 1/2 cups

  • Salt and pepper — to season

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place a large pot over medium-high flame and add the bacon. Saute until the bacon releases its fat and begins to brown. Add the chopped onions and saute until they are cooked through and translucent, 4 or 5 minutes.
  • Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated potatoes. Then stir in the beaten eggs, hot milk or cream, salt and pepper. Pour the potato mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth out the top.
  • Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then reduce heat to 350 degrees F and bake for another 45 minutes until cooked through and browned on the top.
  • Cut into squares and serve hot with applesauce, lingonberry preserves or sour cream.

Kugelis Notes and Variations

  • The number of eggs and amount of milk or cream varies widely in recipes. This recipes is on the higher side. Some recipes have as few as 3 eggs and 1/2 cup milk or cream.
  • For a common variation, stir in 1/4 cup of farina (Cream of Wheat) or semolina before baking.

Whats4eats is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.