Plum dumplings

Plum dumplings – a delicacy that evokes memories and nostalgia, a recipe that takes us back to childhood, to grandmother's house, where the aroma of ripe plums intertwined with the most beautiful moments spent with family. Plum dumplings are a simple yet flavorful dessert that will bring a smile to your face. I invite you to discover how you can prepare these delicious dumplings at home, which can be served warm or cold, alongside a splash of sour cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

- 1 kg potatoes (preferably floury potatoes for a fluffy texture)
- 250 g white flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 300 g plums (choose sweet and fragrant plums)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (to sprinkle over the plums)
- Breadcrumbs:
- 50 g butter
- 150 g breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons sugar (to caramelize the breadcrumbs)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the potatoes
The first step is to ensure you have quality potatoes. Choose floury potatoes that mash easily and give the dumplings a light texture. Peel the potatoes, cut them into cubes, and boil them in salted water. Let them cook for 20 minutes or until soft. Once done, drain and mash them well with a fork or food processor until you achieve a fine puree.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the potato puree with the flour, eggs, oil, and sugar. Mix the ingredients well until you obtain a smooth, slightly elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as the dumplings may become too heavy.

Step 3: Preparing the plums
Wash the plums well, remove the pits, and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Measure 3 tablespoons of sugar and sprinkle it over the plums, gently mixing to coat them evenly. The sugar will help caramelize the plums, giving them a sweet and fragrant taste.

Step 4: Forming the dumplings
Wet your hands with water to prevent the dough from sticking. Take a portion of the potato dough and flatten it in your palm to form a thin disc. Place a half of a plum in the center and cover it with dough, forming a ball. Ensure that the plum is completely covered with dough to prevent it from leaking during boiling. Repeat the process until all the dough is used up.

Step 5: Boiling the dumplings
In a large pot, bring about 3 liters of water with a teaspoon of salt to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the dumplings, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Gently stir with a spatula to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. The dumplings are ready when they rise to the surface. Let them boil for another 2-3 minutes after they float, then remove them with a spatula and place them in a bowl.

Step 6: Preparing the breadcrumbs
In a pan, melt the butter together with the sugar. Add the breadcrumbs and mix well until golden and crispy. This caramelized breadcrumb will add extra texture and flavor to the dumplings.

Step 7: Serving the dumplings
Coat the boiled dumplings in the caramelized breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well covered. Place them on a platter and serve warm or cold, alongside a splash of sour cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also add a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment with different types of fruit, you can replace the plums with peaches or cherries, creating delicious variations of dumplings.
- Make sure the plums are ripe to avoid a sour taste.
- Store leftover dumplings in the fridge, covered, and you can easily reheat them in the microwave or in a pan with a little butter.

Nutritional benefits:
Plum dumplings contain carbohydrates from the potatoes, which are an excellent source of energy. Plums, rich in fiber and antioxidants, contribute to healthy digestion and strengthen the immune system. Additionally, the oil and butter add healthy fats, while the combination of sugar and fruit provides a natural energy boost.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use sweet potatoes, but you will need to adjust the amount of flour as the texture will be different.
- How can I tell if the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are ready when they rise to the surface and have a slightly elastic texture.

A recipe for plum dumplings is a perfect way to bring a touch of nostalgia and flavor into your kitchen. I wish you happy cooking and delicious moments with your loved ones!