Mataz
Mataz (Circassian: мэтазэ), often called psyhaluje (Circassian: псыхьалыжъо) or haluš, are filled dumplings in Circassian cuisine. They are made by wrapping pockets of unleavened dough around a filling and cooking them in boiling water.
 mataz and haliva | |
| Alternative names | Psyhaluje, haluš, or Circassian ravioli |
|---|---|
| Type | Dumpling |
| Main ingredients | Dough: flour, eggs, water. Filling: Mashed potatoes, spiced meat (lamb or ground beef), mushrooms, cheese, greens, sauerkraut, onions, garlic. |
The dough, which is made by mixing flour and warm water, sometimes with an egg, is rolled flat and then cut into squares with a knife or circles using a cup or drinking glass. It may be stuffed with mashed potatoes and fried onions. Typically, these dumplings also consist (singularly or in combinations) of a spiced meat mixture, usually lamb or ground beef, with greens, sauerkraut, and onions, put in a dough wrapper, either boiled or steamed. Mushrooms or cheese may be used in place of meat.
Closely related to halušky and pierogi (varenyky), psyhaluje may be served with a topping, such as melted butter, fried onion, or combinations of these ingredients. Sour cream and yoghurt are non-traditional options.