Dumplings (gomboti) with apricots

Apricot Dumplings - A Sweet Summer Delicacy

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Apricot dumplings, also known as gomboti, are a perfect choice to bring a touch of summer to your plate, even on the dreariest days. These delicious potato-based pastries, filled with sweet apricots, are a prime example of comfort food, deeply rooted in a rich culinary tradition. Let’s embark on our gastronomic journey!

Required Ingredients

- 500 g potatoes (preferably starchy potatoes)
- 200-250 g flour
- 1 egg
- Salt, to taste
- 7-8 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 3-4 tablespoons sugar (plus extra for the filling)
- A few apricots (about 6-8, depending on their size)
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- A piece of butter (about the size of a walnut)

Preparing the Dumplings

Step 1: Boiling the Potatoes
Start by boiling the potatoes, skins on, in a large pot of salted water. It’s important to choose potatoes that are high in starch, as they will create a fluffier dough. Boil them until a fork easily pierces through, but without breaking them apart. Once boiled, drain the water and let them cool slightly so you can work with them.

Step 2: Preparing the Apricots
Meanwhile, wash the apricots, dry them well, and cut them in half, removing the pits. If the apricots are large, you can cut them into quarters. On each apricot piece, sprinkle a little sugar and a dash of cinnamon. This will enhance the fruit's flavor and add a delicious taste!

Step 3: Making the Dough
Once the potatoes have cooled, peel them and grate them using a fine grater. Place the grated potatoes in a large bowl, add the egg, a pinch of salt, and the flour. Mix well until you achieve a smooth dough. It shouldn’t be too sticky, so add flour gradually if needed.

Step 4: Shaping the Dumplings
Sprinkle flour on your work surface and roll the dough into a log, dividing it into equal pieces. Each piece should be about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each piece of dough in your palms (don’t forget to flour your hands) and place an apricot piece in the center. Wrap the dough around the apricot and roll it to form a dumpling.

Cooking the Dumplings

Step 5: Boiling
Bring a pot of water with a little salt to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the dumplings. Allow them to cook over medium heat until they rise to the surface. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6: Preparing the Breadcrumbs
Meanwhile, in a skillet, melt the butter and add the breadcrumbs. Sauté them for a few minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning, until they turn golden. When ready, you can add the 3-4 tablespoons of sugar and mix well.

Step 7: Serving
Once the dumplings have floated to the surface, remove them with a slotted spoon and coat them in the sautéed breadcrumbs. Arrange them on a nice platter and, if desired, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Apricot dumplings can be served warm, with a vanilla sauce or sweet cream. You can also try serving them with a berry sauce for a fresh twist. Another delicious option is to add a bit of vanilla or lemon zest to the dough for a more aromatic flavor.

Chef’s Tip

If you want to experiment, you can replace the apricots with other seasonal fruits, such as plums or peaches. Also, make sure the breadcrumbs are well toasted to achieve a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the soft dumplings.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of apricot dumplings contains approximately 250-300 kcal, depending on the amount of sugar and butter used. They provide carbohydrates from the potatoes, fiber from the fruit, and a dose of essential vitamins. Apricots are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a healthy dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use new potatoes?
New potatoes may contain more moisture, which could make the dough stickier. It’s best to use older potatoes that are starchier.

2. What can I do with leftover dumplings?
If you have some dumplings left, you can freeze them! Place them on a tray in the freezer until they harden, then store them in freezer bags. You can boil them directly from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I add other spices?
Absolutely! Cardamom or nutmeg can add an interesting and exotic note. Play around with flavors and find the combination you like best.

This apricot dumpling recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a wonderful way to bring joy to summer meals. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will please your taste buds. Enjoy cooking and savoring the tastes of the season!