I am 100% Ukrainian, and the food we make has been part of my family for generations.

What many people know as pierogi are what we called pedehe or varenyky in our home—the Ukrainian name for these beloved dumplings. The word pierogi is more commonly recognized, which is why we use it today, but the tradition behind them is deeply Ukrainian.

When my brother or I visited our Baba (Grandma), she always asked the same question:

“Are you hungry?”

And then, “Do you want pedehe (vareneke/pierogi) or nalesneky (crepes)?”

Out came the pans. potatoes, onions, flour. No written recipes—just hands guided by experience, patience, and love. Watching her cook was watching care in its purest form.

As I grew older, I realized it wasn’t just the food that stayed with me—it was how food was used to nurture, to connect, and to show love. That realization led me to train as a chef at the California Culinary Academy. Life eventually took an unexpected turn, and I spent nearly 17 years working for the FBI.

Through every chapter, cooking remained my anchor. I continued crafting food at home for family and friends, keeping those traditions alive.

In February 2022, when war broke out in Ukraine, I felt a strong pull to help. I began making hand-crafted pierogi (varenyky) to raise funds for World Central Kitchen, selling them to neighbors and friends. What began as a way to support others reminded me just how powerful food can be.

After retiring from the FBI, I still needed to fill my days—and my heart. I wanted to share the love of my culture, my heritage, and my craft. In November 2025, Pewaukee Pierogi Co was born.

Today, our pierogi are still made the way they always have been—by hand, with care, and with family. Our current pierogi crafters are me and my mom (she’s a hell of a pincher), continuing a Ukrainian tradition that has fed generations.

From our kitchen to your table—this is food made with love, history, and purpose.