Potato Pampushki

Directions

1. 1
   Coarsely grate the raw potatoes and squeeze out as much water as possible. Put them in a bowl with the mashed potatoes, salt and pepper. Mix together.
2. 2
   In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese and chives together.
3. 3
   Using a spoon and your fingers scoop up a portion of the potato mixture, slightly smaller then an egg and flatten into a circle.
4. 4
   Put 1 teaspoon of the cheese filling in the middle; fold over the edges and pinch to seal.
5. 5
   Repeat with remaining potato and cheese mixtures; makes about 12 dumplings.
6. 6
   Heat the oil to 340 degrees Fahrenheit in a deep fat fryer.
7. 7
   Fry for 10 minutes or until deep brown and crisp.
8. 8
   Drain and serve hot.