Bundukies Recipe

Jennifer Segal

23 Oct, 2023

Discover the magic of Lithuanian cuisine with our scrumptious Bundukies recipe! Learn to make these savory bacon buns today.

Bundukies

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Lithuanian
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 12 buns
Calories: 200 calories

About this recipe

Bundukies, also known as Lithuanian bacon buns, are a beloved traditional pastry in Lithuanian cuisine. These delightful treats are a perfect blend of rich, savory, and comforting flavors.

Bundukies consist of a soft, yeast-based dough enveloping a flavorful filling, typically made with bacon and onions.

The dough for bundukies is prepared by combining warm milk, sugar, yeast, and a touch of butter, which results in a light, airy texture when baked. It's often enriched with an egg for added richness.

After the dough has risen and doubled in size, it is portioned into rounds, creating the perfect pocket to hold the delicious filling.

The heart of bundukies is the savory filling. Diced bacon is crisped up to perfection, releasing its smoky and salty essence. To balance this richness, finely chopped onions are sautéed until they turn golden and aromatic.

The blend of these ingredients, along with a dash of salt and pepper, creates a mouthwatering, umami-filled mixture that's then folded into the dough.

Once the bundukies are assembled, they are baked until golden brown, resulting in a heavenly combination of soft, pillowy bread and the indulgent flavors of bacon and onions. These buns are often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish.

Origin of Bundukies recipe

The bundukies recipe, known as Lithuanian bacon buns, originates from Lithuania, a country in the Baltic region of Europe.

Lithuania has a rich culinary tradition deeply influenced by its history and geography. Bundukies are a part of this culinary heritage, and their background is closely tied to the country's agricultural and culinary history.

Bacon has been a staple in Lithuanian cuisine for centuries due to the country's reliance on pig farming. Pork, and especially bacon, played a significant role in traditional Lithuanian dishes, offering a valuable source of protein and fat in the diet. The tradition of using bacon in pastries and bread likely emerged as a way to incorporate this prized ingredient into various meals.

The Lithuanian bacon buns, bundukies, are a reflection of this heritage. The combination of a yeasted dough, often enriched with milk and eggs, and a savory bacon and onion filling creates a delicious and hearty snack or side dish. The recipe's simplicity and use of readily available ingredients make it a practical and beloved dish in Lithuanian homes.

While bundukies have a strong connection to Lithuanian culture, similar pastries with savory fillings are found in various cuisines across Europe. These buns reflect the universality of combining dough with flavorful ingredients, making them not only a part of Lithuania's culinary tradition but also a familiar concept in many other cultures.

Why make this recipe?

There are several good reasons to try the bundukies recipe:

Delicious Flavor: Bundukies are a delightful combination of soft, fluffy bread and a savory, smoky bacon and onion filling. The contrast in textures and the rich, comforting flavors make them a real treat for your taste buds.
Cultural Experience: Trying bundukies allows you to explore the culinary traditions of Lithuania. It's a chance to taste a dish deeply rooted in the country's history and culture.
Homemade Goodness: Making bundukies from scratch can be a rewarding experience. Homemade pastries often have a special touch that commercial versions can't replicate.
Versatility: Bundukies can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish. They are versatile and can be a hit at gatherings or enjoyed on their own.
Simple Ingredients: The ingredients for bundukies are straightforward and typically readily available. You don't need any exotic or hard-to-find items, making them an accessible recipe.
Customization: You can customize the filling to your liking. If you prefer more onions or want to add cheese or herbs for extra flavor, bundukies can be adapted to suit your preferences.
Nostalgia: For those with Lithuanian heritage or anyone who has fond memories of enjoying similar pastries, making and eating bundukies can evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Homemade Goodness: There's something special about creating homemade baked goods. The process of making bundukies can be a fun and satisfying culinary adventure.

Bundukies offer a wonderful culinary experience, a taste of Lithuanian culture, and the opportunity to savor a delicious and versatile dish. Whether you're exploring new recipes or looking to appreciate a traditional treat, trying bundukies is definitely worth it.

What does Bundukies taste like?

The taste of bundukies is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. These Lithuanian bacon buns offer a savory and satisfying experience. Here's what you can expect:

Savory Bacon: The prominent flavor in bundukies comes from the bacon filling. The bacon is typically diced, crisped up during cooking, and adds a smoky, salty, and savory element to each bite.
Sweet Onions: The finely chopped onions used in the filling are sautéed until they become soft and golden. They bring a touch of sweetness and a mild, aromatic quality to the overall taste.
Soft, Fluffy Bread: The bread dough, made with yeast, milk, and butter, is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet. It provides a comforting, neutral base for the savory filling.
Balanced Flavor: The combination of the rich, savory bacon and the sweet, caramelized onions creates a balanced and complementary taste. The dough acts as a perfect vessel to encase and highlight these flavors.
Umami: The savory, smoky, and slightly salty elements from the bacon create an umami-rich taste, which is satisfying and comforting.

Bundukies offer a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, making them a flavorful and mouthwatering treat. The soft, pillowy bread complements the rich, bacon-and-onion filling, creating a delightful balance of tastes and textures in every bite.

What would you need for this recipe?

These are the ingredients needed to make Bundukies:

Active Dry Yeast: Yeast is used to leaven the dough, making it rise and become light and fluffy.
Warm Milk: Warm milk is the liquid used to activate the yeast and forms the base for the dough. It adds richness and helps create a tender crumb in the bread.
Sugar: Sugar is needed to feed the yeast, allowing it to activate and produce carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise.
Melted Butter: Melted butter adds a wonderful richness to the dough, enhancing its flavor and texture.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour is the primary dry ingredient for the dough, providing structure and texture to the buns.
Salt: Salt is used for flavor enhancement and to regulate the yeast's fermentation process.
Egg: An egg is often included in the dough to enrich it and add moisture.
Bacon: Bacon is a central ingredient, providing a savory, smoky, and salty flavor to the filling.
Onion: Onions are finely chopped and sautéed to add a touch of sweetness and an aromatic element to the bacon filling.
Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are seasonings used to enhance and balance the flavors in the bacon and onion filling.

Equipment

Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dough ingredients. A large bowl will work. Substitute: Any large bowl or container can be used.
Whisk or Spoon: A whisk or a spoon is needed to mix the yeast, sugar, and warm milk. Substitute: You can use a fork or a regular spoon for mixing.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are used to accurately measure the ingredients. Substitute: Eyeballing measurements can work for some ingredients, but precise measurements are important for baking.
Baking Sheet: A baking sheet is used to place and bake the bundukies in the oven. Substitute: If you don't have a baking sheet, you can use a regular baking dish, but the shape and size may affect the baking time.
Skillet: A skillet is used to cook the bacon and onions for the filling. Substitute: A frying pan or saucepan can work as a substitute.
Rolling Pin: A rolling pin is used to roll out the dough into circles for making the buns. Substitute: A clean wine bottle or any cylindrical, smooth object can be used as a makeshift rolling pin.
Parchment Paper: Parchment paper helps prevent the buns from sticking to the baking sheet. Substitute: You can grease the baking sheet or use a silicone baking mat.
Knife or Pizza Cutter: A knife or pizza cutter is used to cut the dough into individual portions or shape the buns. Substitute: A sharp kitchen knife can be used.

How to make Bundukies

Explore a delightful Lithuanian delight with our Bundukies recipe. Create savory bacon buns that'll tantalize your taste buds. Try it now!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg

For the Filling:

1/2 pound of bacon, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Start by activating the yeast. In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the bacon and onion filling. In a skillet, cook the diced bacon until it's crispy. Remove some of the excess fat, leaving a few tablespoons. Add chopped onions and sauté until they're soft and golden. Season with salt and pepper.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small circle.
Place a spoonful of the bacon and onion filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges to form a bun.
Place the buns on a baking sheet and let them rest for about 15 minutes.
Bake the bundukies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they're golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade Lithuanian bacon buns!

How do you serve Bundukies recipe?

To serve your freshly baked Lithuanian bacon buns (Bundukies), follow these simple steps:

Cool Slightly: Allow the bundukies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet after you've taken them out of the oven. This will prevent you from burning your mouth and give them a chance to set.
Transfer to a Serving Platter: After the initial cooling, carefully transfer the bundukies to a serving platter or plate. You can use a spatula to lift them off the baking sheet if needed.
Garnish (Optional): If desired, you can garnish the bundukies with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serve Warm: Bundukies are best when served warm. The contrast between the soft, warm bread and the savory bacon filling is particularly delicious.
Enjoy: Serve the bundukies as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish. They are great for sharing with friends and family, and they pair well with various beverages, such as tea, coffee, or a cold glass of milk.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to enjoy them again.

That's it! Serving bundukies is as simple as enjoying their delicious, savory goodness while they're still warm and fresh out of the oven.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 583 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Bundukies, Bundukies Recipe, Recipe, Easy, Homemade, Top rated

What to serve with?

Lithuanian bacon buns (Bundukies) are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas for what you can serve with bundukies:

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream is a classic and delicious condiment to serve with bundukies. The cool, tangy flavor complements the savory bacon filling.
Pickles: Pickles, whether dill pickles or other pickled vegetables, provide a refreshing and slightly acidic contrast to the rich flavors of bundukies.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing can provide a nice balance to the savory buns. The salad's freshness and crispness work well with the rich filling.
Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is a traditional side dish in Lithuanian cuisine. Its tangy, fermented flavor can add an extra layer of taste to your meal.
Mustard: Spicy or whole-grain mustard can be a flavorful dipping sauce for bundukies, adding a bit of heat and zing.
Soup: Lithuanian cuisine often features hearty soups. Serving bundukies with a comforting soup, such as borscht or a mushroom soup, can make for a satisfying meal.
Tea or Coffee: For a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack, pair bundukies with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The combination of a warm beverage and the savory buns is delightful.
Fruit Compote: A sweet fruit compote, often made from apples or berries, can provide a sweet contrast to the savory buns. It's a popular dessert option in Lithuanian cuisine.
Potato Dishes: Potatoes are a staple in Lithuanian cuisine. You can serve bundukies alongside a potato dish like potato salad or potato pancakes.
Cottage Cheese: A spoonful of fresh cottage cheese is another traditional Lithuanian accompaniment that adds a creamy, dairy element to your meal.

My recommendations and tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients, especially the yeast, are fresh. Fresh yeast will help the dough rise properly and create a lighter texture.
Prep Work: Read through the entire recipe and prepare all your ingredients and equipment before you start. This will make the cooking process smoother.
Yeast Activation: Make sure your milk is warm but not too hot. It should be around 110°F (43°C). Stir the yeast, warm milk, and sugar together and let it sit until it becomes frothy. This ensures that your yeast is active.
Kneading the Dough: When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic texture. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes of kneading.
Dough Rising: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place. It should double in size during this time, which usually takes 1-1.5 hours.
Bacon Cooking: When cooking the bacon and onions for the filling, ensure that the bacon becomes crispy and the onions turn soft and golden. This helps release the flavors and create a rich filling.
Filling Assembly: When filling the dough circles, avoid overfilling, as it can make it challenging to seal the buns properly. A spoonful of filling is usually sufficient.
Sealing the Buns: Make sure to seal the edges of the dough securely to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
Letting Them Rest: After assembling the buns, allow them to rest for about 15 minutes. This short rest time can improve the texture of the finished buns.
Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature (350°F or 180°C) to ensure even baking.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the buns as they bake. They should turn golden brown. You can check for doneness by tapping the bottom; it should sound hollow.
Serve Warm: Bundukies are best enjoyed while they are still warm from the oven.
Customize: Feel free to customize the filling with herbs, cheese, or other ingredients that you enjoy.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to enjoy them again.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Active Dry Yeast: Substitute instant yeast at a 1:1 ratio.
Warm Milk: Substitute warm water if you're out of milk.
Sugar: Honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar can be used instead of sugar.
Melted Butter: Vegetable oil or coconut oil can be used as a substitute for melted butter.
All-Purpose Flour: Bread flour can be used if you want a slightly chewier texture.
Egg: For an egg-free alternative, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) to bind the dough.
Bacon: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute with smoked tempeh, tofu, or seitan to replicate a smoky flavor. For a different meat option, consider using smoked sausage or ham.
Onion: Shallots or scallions can be substituted for onion. If you want a milder flavor, use leeks.
Salt and Pepper: Adjust the quantity of salt and pepper to suit your taste, or use alternative seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for extra flavor.