Pelmeni: Russian Meat Dumplings

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1. 1Step 1: Mix all dough ingredients in a bowl until the dough is soft, elastic, and doesn't stick to your hands. Depending on the humidity levels, it may take up to 20 minutes.
2. 2Step 2: If the dough is too dry, rub a couple of drops of olive oil on your hands and continue kneading. If it's still dry, do the same but with cold water. Alternate oil and water until it's soft and elastic.
3. 3Step 3: If the dough is too runny, dust it with flour and continue kneading.
4. 4Step 4: Grease a bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside and cover with a lightly damp towel.
5. 5Step 5: Let your dough rest at room temperature while you prepare the filling: mix all 'Filling' ingredients and refrigerate until ready to use.
6. 6Step 6: Place the dough on a cutting board and cut in half, and then again. Leave one piece out and put the rest back in a bowl, covered with lightly damp towel.
7. 7Step 7: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough until it's about 12 inch long/wide.
8. 8Step 8: If it sticks to your hands, dust it lightly with flour. I like to flip mine from time to time to make sure it is not sticking to the table.
9. 9Step 9: Using a 2 inch round cutter, cut out circles - there should be about 25.
10. 10Step 10: Set up your 'assembly line': small bowl of water, measuring teaspoon, filling, and a cutting board lightly dusted with flour.
11. 11Step 11: Dip your finger in water and trace the outer edge - it will help seal it.
12. 12Step 12: Place a teaspoon of filling in the center.
13. 13Step 13: Gently push the filling in with your thumbs to stretch the circle out and fold one half over the other.
14. 14Step 14: Pinch the edges thoroughly.
15. 15Step 15: Bring two ends together by stretching the flat, sealed side.
16. 16Step 16: Pinch the edges again to make sure your pelmeni are sealed.
17. 17Step 17: Proceed with the remaining dough. (If you have leftovers, they freeze well).
18. 18Step 18: Bring a medium pot of water to boil and add salt, bay leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.
19. 19Step 19: Carefully add pelmeni to boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes.
20. 20Step 20: Take one out and cut to taste it.
21. 21Step 21: When all pelmeni are cooked, discard the bay leaves, strain, and serve with desired toppings.