Dumplings with apricots

Apricot or Plum Dumplings: a delicious recipe that will fill your heart with joy

Apricot dumplings are a dessert that evokes pleasant childhood memories, being a beloved dish for the whole family. These fluffy dumplings, filled with sweet and juicy apricots, will bring a wide smile to your face with every bite. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing you with useful tips to achieve a perfect result every time.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4 servings

Your delicious ingredients:
- 10-12 ripe apricots
- 4-5 large potatoes (about 1 kg)
- Flour, as needed (about 300 g)
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons crushed walnuts
- 6 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons sugar

A bit of history
Apricot or plum dumplings are a traditional dish found in many cultures, often served as dessert or even as a main meal. They are a perfect example of using seasonal fruits, and the combination of potatoes and sweet fruits is absolutely delightful. It is fascinating how simple recipes with common ingredients can bring so much joy into our lives.

Preparing the apricot dumplings

1. Preparing the apricot:
Carefully wash the apricots, then peel them and remove the pits. Place them on a plate and sprinkle a little sugar over them. This will help enhance the flavors and create a juicy filling.

2. Toast the breadcrumbs and walnuts:
In a pan, add the breadcrumbs and crushed walnuts. Put the pan over medium heat and let them toast slightly, stirring constantly to prevent burning. When the breadcrumbs turn golden, remove the pan from the heat and add the sugar. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

3. Boil the potatoes:
In a pot, bring salted water to a boil. Peel the potatoes and cut them into pieces. Add them to the boiling water and cook until soft (about 20 minutes). Once ready, drain them and let them cool slightly.

4. Preparing the dough:
Mash the potatoes with a fork, add the egg, and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing well. The dough should be soft but not sticky. It is important not to knead it too much, to avoid a dense texture.

5. Forming the dumplings:
Sprinkle flour on the working surface. Tear pieces of dough the size of a tennis ball. Flatten each piece in your palm and place an apricot in the center. Wrap the dough around the apricot, forming a perfect ball. Make sure the dumplings are well sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during boiling.

6. Boiling the dumplings:
Put salted water to boil in a large pot. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the dumplings. Let them boil for about 10-15 minutes until they rise to the surface. This is the sign that they are ready!

7. Roll in breadcrumbs:
Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and place them on a platter. Immediately roll them in the mixture of breadcrumbs and walnuts, making sure they are well coated.

Serving the dumplings
Now that you have finished preparing these delicious apricot dumplings, it’s time to enjoy them! You can serve them warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar or with a spoonful of fresh cream for an extra creaminess. If you want a touch of freshness, you can add a few mint leaves on top.

Variations and tips
If you’re looking for a variation, feel free to replace the apricots with plums or other seasonal fruits such as peaches or apples. You can also add a splash of vanilla essence or cinnamon to the dough for a special flavor. These dumplings can also be served with a vanilla or caramel sauce, turning them into a true feast.

Nutritional benefits
These dumplings, although a delicious dessert, can also be a good source of nutrients. Apricots are rich in vitamins, especially vitamins A and C, while potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates and fiber. The crushed walnuts add healthy fats, and the sugar can be adjusted according to your preferences.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will provide a different flavor and a more vibrant color, but you may need to adjust the amount of flour.

2. How can I store the dumplings for later consumption?
After cooking them, you can let them cool, then store them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them by adding them to hot water for a few minutes.

3. What drinks pair best with apricot dumplings?
A fruit tea or freshly squeezed juice would be excellent combinations. Also, a light white wine or prosecco can add a festive touch.

Apricot dumplings are not just a dessert, but a memory of simple times filled with joy and warmth. Try this recipe and let yourself be transported back to childhood with every bite. Enjoy!