Potato dumplings with tomato sauce

Potato Dumplings with Tomato Sauce: An Explosion of Flavor and Aroma

Welcome to the world of delicacies cooked with love! Today, I invite you on a culinary journey of a simple yet flavorful recipe: potato dumplings with a delicious tomato sauce. This dish is not only nourishing but also an excellent choice for any meal, whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s put on our aprons and discover together how we can transform simple ingredients into a true feast!

Preparation Time and Number of Servings
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total: 1 hour
- Number of servings: 4 servings

Necessary Ingredients

For Dumplings:
- 6-7 large potatoes (about 1 kg)
- Salt, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 egg (or a tablespoon of sour cream for an egg-free version)
- Breadcrumbs, for coating

For Tomato Sauce:
- 3 large ripe tomatoes
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove of fresh garlic)
- Basil and oregano, to taste

Preparing the Dumplings

1. Boil the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes, then wash them well under cold running water. Cut them into cubes and boil them in a pot of salted water. Let them boil for about 15-20 minutes until tender but not too soft.

2. Mash: After the potatoes are boiled, drain them, but keep about half of the water. This will help achieve the perfect texture. Add salt, flour, and mash until you get a firmer consistency. Add the egg and finely chopped parsley, mixing well until combined.

3. Form the Dumplings: You can put a little oil on your hands to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the potato mixture and form balls the size of a golf ball. Roll each dumpling in breadcrumbs, making sure it is well coated.

4. Fry in Oil: In a pan, heat the olive oil. Add the dumplings, frying them on all sides until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Preparing the Tomato Sauce

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Peel the tomatoes (you can blanch them in hot water for a few seconds to make peeling easier) and place them in a blender along with a teaspoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until you get a smooth paste.

2. Cook the Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce into a pot and add parsley, basil, oregano, and garlic powder. Let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld perfectly.

Serving and Recommendations

The potato dumplings with tomato sauce are served hot, either with the sauce on top or separately, allowing everyone to customize their portion. If you prefer a creamier option, you can top it with sour cream or grated cheese. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a side of grilled vegetables.

Variations and Tips

- Ingredient Variations: You can add feta cheese to the dumpling mixture for a richer taste or fresh dill instead of parsley if you prefer a different flavor.
- Vegan Options: If you want to make a vegan version, omit the egg and use a tablespoon of vegan sour cream to bind the mixture.
- Alternative Sauces: If you’re not a fan of tomato sauce, try serving them with a garlic yogurt sauce or a flavored mayonnaise.

Nutritional Benefits

These dumplings are a good source of carbohydrates from potatoes, providing energy, while parsley adds a note of freshness and is rich in vitamins. Additionally, the tomato sauce brings antioxidants and vitamin C, making it a healthy choice for your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a sweet note and vibrant color to your dumplings.

2. How can I prevent the dumplings from falling apart while frying?
Ensure that the potato mash is well compacted, and if necessary, you can add a little more flour.

3. What drinks pair well with these dumplings?
A dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade with a hint of mint are excellent choices to complement the meal.

I hope this recipe for potato dumplings with tomato sauce has inspired you to start cooking! Every bite is a delight, and the combination of textures and flavors will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!