Dumplings with nectarines

Dumplings with nectarines - a sweet and fragrant delight

In a world full of sophisticated desserts, dumplings with nectarines manage to bring a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every bite. This simple yet flavorful dish will transport you to the joyful moments of childhood when every meal became a celebration. Dumplings, also known as gomboti, can be prepared with a variety of fruits, but the combination with nectarines brings a fresh taste and perfectly balanced sweetness.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 500 g potatoes (preferably starchy)
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- Zest from 1/2 lemon
- 4 ripe nectarines (but not too soft), diced
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (for nectarines)
- 200 g breadcrumbs
- 50 g butter (or oil, if you prefer a lighter version)
- 50 g sugar (for breadcrumbs)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well and boil them with their skins on. Make sure they are completely covered with water. Boil for 20-30 minutes or until soft. Check with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are done. Once boiled, let them cool slightly, then peel.

2. Preparing the dough: Mash the warm potatoes in a large bowl. Add the egg, flour, a pinch of salt, and lemon zest. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous dough. It is important for the dough to be slightly sticky, but not overly so. If it is too soft, you can add a little more flour. Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps stabilize the dough and shape the dumplings.

3. Preparing the nectarines: While the dough rests, prepare the nectarines. Cut them into small pieces and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar. This step will help extract the juice from the fruit, making the dumplings more aromatic.

4. Preparing the breadcrumbs: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and stir constantly to prevent sticking. Fry until golden and crispy, then add the 50 g of sugar. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Turn off the heat and let the breadcrumbs cool.

5. Shaping the dumplings: Grease your hands with a little oil to prevent the dough from sticking. Take a portion of dough (about a tablespoon) and flatten it in your palm. Place a piece of nectarine in the center, then close the dough to form a round ball. Make sure the fruit is completely covered by the dough to prevent it from breaking during boiling. Repeat the process until you finish the dough.

6. Boiling the dumplings: Put salted water in a large pot and bring it to a boil. Carefully add the dumplings without overcrowding the pot. The dumplings are ready when they float to the surface, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, being careful not to break them.

7. Coating with breadcrumbs: After removing the dumplings from the water, immediately roll them in the fried breadcrumbs. This will add a delicious crunchy texture.

Serving suggestions:

Dumplings with nectarines are served warm but can also be enjoyed cold, especially if you replace the butter with oil in the breadcrumbs. You can serve them with a vanilla sauce or sweet cream, which will perfectly complement the fruit's flavor. Another delicious option is to sprinkle them with a little powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Tips and practical advice:

- Choosing potatoes: Opt for potatoes with a higher starch content, such as Russet or Yukon Gold, to achieve a better texture.
- Nectarines: Ensure that the nectarines are ripe but not too soft; otherwise, they will break down during cooking. A well-ripened nectarine will provide a sweet and fragrant taste.
- Variations: Instead of nectarines, you can use plums or peaches, and for an exotic touch, try mango or pineapple. You can also add some chopped nuts to the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Nutritional benefits: Fruit dumplings are a good source of carbohydrates, and nectarines are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, dumplings are very versatile. You can experiment with different types of fruits, such as apples, cherries, or raspberries.

2. What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
Add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as the dough should remain slightly soft.

3. How can I store the dumplings?
Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.

4. Can they be frozen?
Yes, dumplings can be frozen before boiling. Arrange them on a tray in the freezer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

These dumplings with nectarines are more than just a simple dessert; they are a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation. Whether you enjoy them alone or share the joy of making them with loved ones, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. So get ready to sweeten your day and enjoy every bite!