Plum dumplings

Plum Dumplings – A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

If you're looking for a quick dessert that brings back childhood memories, plum dumplings are the perfect choice. This delicious dish combines the fluffy texture of potato dough with the juicy sweetness of plums, all covered with a crispy layer of fried breadcrumbs. Plum dumplings are not only a simple recipe but also an excellent way to enjoy seasonal fruits. Let's discover together how to prepare this delightful recipe!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes (preferably starchy potatoes)
- 500 g plums (ripe and juicy)
- 250 g breadcrumbs
- 150 g flour
- 200 g sugar (plus extra for filling)
- 20 g ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt

Necessary utensils

- A large pot for boiling
- A sieve
- A cutting board or a work surface
- A glass with a diameter of 8-10 cm
- A pan for frying breadcrumbs

Step by Step

1. Preparing the potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly and boiling them with their skins. This method helps retain the internal moisture of the potatoes, giving them an ideal texture. Boil them for about 30-40 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a fork. Once boiled, let them cool slightly, then peel them.

2. Preparing the dough
Grate the potatoes using a fine grater, then add the flour and a pinch of salt. Mix the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Don't be afraid to knead the dough with your hands! This is the key to getting fluffy dumplings. Place the dough on a work surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1 cm.

3. Shaping the dumplings
Using a glass, cut circles from the rolled-out dough. Make sure to have circles of the right size to wrap around the plums. Wash the plums and remove the pits. If the plums are large, you can cut them in half. Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon on the plums to give them a delicious and aromatic flavor. Place one plum on each dough circle and form balls, ensuring that the plums are well wrapped.

4. Boiling the dumplings
In a large pot, bring water with a pinch of salt to a boil. When the water is boiling, carefully add the dumplings. Let them boil until they rise to the surface, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This process not only cooks them but also helps them become fluffy.

5. Preparing the breadcrumbs
While the dumplings are boiling, heat a pan over medium heat and add the breadcrumbs. Fry them until golden and crispy, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once the breadcrumbs are ready, turn off the heat and mix them with the remaining sugar.

6. Coating the dumplings
Remove the dumplings from the water using a slotted spatula and place them in a sieve to drain. After a few minutes, roll them in the breadcrumb and sugar mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

7. Serving
Place the dumplings on a platter and, if desired, you can add a drizzle of sour cream or vanilla sauce for extra flavor. These plum dumplings are delicious when warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Useful Tips

- Choosing plums: Opt for ripe but not overly soft plums to avoid them breaking apart during boiling.
- Variations: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or cherries. You can also add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Storage: If you have leftover dumplings, you can freeze them before boiling. Place them on a tray to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. Boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Benefits

Plum dumplings offer a combination of carbohydrates from potatoes and fiber from fruits, making them a healthier dessert option. Plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy digestive system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use mashed potatoes?
It is recommended to use boiled potatoes with skins on for optimal texture. Mashed potatoes can make the dough too wet.

- How long can I keep the dumplings?
Fresh dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. We recommend consuming them as soon as possible to enjoy their fluffy texture.

- What drinks pair well with them?
These dumplings are delicious alongside a fruit tea or a sweet wine, which will enhance the flavors of the plums.

In conclusion, plum dumplings are more than just a simple dessert; they represent a part of culinary culture that is passed down from generation to generation. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these dumplings will surely bring joy to your table. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the magic of cooking!