Plum dumplings

Plum Dumplings: A Delicacy to Remember

Plum dumplings are a traditional dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort with every bite. These delicious dumplings, with their soft and fluffy interior, conceal sweet or tart plums at their center, offering an explosion of flavors that will instantly win you over. Whether served as a dessert or a snack, plum dumplings are a perfect choice for any occasion. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step through the preparation of this dish, adding useful tips and information about the ingredients that will help you achieve a perfect result.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg yellow potatoes
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1 whole egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 17-20 plums (you can also use smaller ones, depending on your preference)
- 400 g white breadcrumbs
- 50 ml oil
- 4-5 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Preparing the Dumplings

Step 1: Boiling the Potatoes

Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into cubes. Then, place them in a pot with cold water and add a little salt. Boil the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they become very soft. This step is essential, as well-cooked potatoes will ensure the fluffy texture of the dumplings.

Step 2: Making the Mashed Potatoes

Once the potatoes are ready, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, use a fork or a potato masher to turn them into a smooth puree. It is important to avoid lumps, as they will affect the final texture of the dumplings.

Helpful Tip: If you want to save time, you can use pre-cooked potatoes or store-bought mashed potatoes, but the taste will be more authentic with fresh potatoes.

Step 3: Preparing the Dough

After the puree has cooled, add the whole egg and the egg yolk. Mix well until the ingredients are combined. Then, gradually add the flour and mix until you obtain a homogeneous dough. It is normal for the dough to be a little softer; this will contribute to making the dumplings fluffier.

Step 4: Preparing the Plums

Meanwhile, prepare the plums. Wash them well and remove the pits. If the plums are tart, add a little sugar in place of the pit. This will help balance the flavor and add a touch of sweetness.

Step 5: Shaping the Dumplings

Divide the dough into 17-20 equal pieces, depending on the size of the plums. Take each piece of dough and form a square large enough to wrap around a plum. Wrap the plum in the dough, ensuring it is completely covered. It is recommended to have floured hands to make it easier to work with.

Step 6: Boiling the Dumplings

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. When the water starts to bubble, carefully add the dumplings. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes, or until they rise to the surface. This is a sign that they are ready.

Step 7: Coating in Breadcrumbs

After the dumplings are cooked, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain slightly. In a pan, heat the oil and add the breadcrumbs. Fry the breadcrumbs, stirring constantly to avoid burning, for 5-6 minutes. Add the sugar, vanilla sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well to combine the flavors.

Step 8: Serving the Dumplings

Roll each dumpling in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well coated. You can serve the dumplings warm, sprinkled with a little extra sugar or a drizzle of sour cream.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Plum dumplings are delicious and simple, but you can also add a personal touch. For example, try using dried plums or peaches instead of plums for a different take on this dessert. You can also add nuts or almonds for extra texture.

Nutritional Information

These dumplings are a good source of carbohydrates, while the plums provide vitamins and fiber. Each serving has approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion sizes. Ingredients like sugar and oil should be used in moderation, especially if you are mindful of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace the potatoes with something else?
- It is recommended to use potatoes for an authentic taste, but you can try pumpkin puree or sweet potatoes for a gluten-free option.

2. How can I make the dumplings fluffier?
- Make sure not to add too much flour and do not overboil them. Boil them just until they rise to the surface.

3. Can I freeze the dumplings?
- Yes, the dumplings can be frozen. Wrap them well and store them in the freezer. Boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

These plum dumplings are more than just a simple dessert; they are a culinary experience that blends tradition with flavor. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by sweet memories!