Plum dumplings

Cook with love and joy, because today we are venturing into a delicious recipe for plum dumplings! This traditional dessert, with its soft texture and sweet-tart flavor, is perfect for treating family and friends. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, plum dumplings are a wonderful choice for any occasion. Let’s get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 medium potatoes
- 12 ripe plums
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2-3 tablespoons flour (or more if needed)
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- 50 g butter

Step by step: How to make plum dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized, firm potatoes without blemishes. After peeling, wash them well under cold running water. Place them in a pot of salted water to boil. The potatoes are ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork, usually after about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the plums
Meanwhile, wash the plums under cold water and remove the pits. This is an ideal moment to add a bit of sugar in place of the pits, giving a sweet and flavorful touch to the plums. You can use white or brown sugar, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Prepare the flavored breadcrumbs
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, being careful not to burn it. Add the breadcrumbs, sugar, and ground cinnamon, stirring constantly. This combination will give an irresistible aroma to the dumplings. Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy.

Step 4: Prepare the potato puree
Once the potatoes are boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly. Mash the potatoes into a fine puree. First, add 2 tablespoons of flour and the semolina, mixing well. If the mixture is too soft, feel free to gradually add more flour until you achieve the right consistency for forming balls.

Step 5: Form the dumplings
Dust your hands with a little flour to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the potato puree, flatten it in your palm, and place a sugar-filled plum in the center. Wrap the plum with the potato puree, forming a compact ball. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used.

Step 6: Boil the dumplings
Bring a pot of water (about 3 liters) to a boil and add a little salt. When the water is boiling, carefully add the dumplings. They are ready when they rise to the surface, usually after 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the water.

Step 7: Roll in breadcrumbs
After removing the dumplings, immediately roll them in the flavored breadcrumb mixture. This will add a delicious crispy layer on the outside, perfectly contrasting with the soft and juicy filling.

Serving suggestions
Plum dumplings can be served warm, drizzled with a bit of vanilla sauce or alongside vanilla ice cream. These combinations enhance the flavors and create an unforgettable culinary experience. You can also add some chopped nuts for an extra texture.

Variations and helpful tips
- You can experiment with various types of fruit, such as apricots or peaches, if you prefer an alternative to plums.
- For an even richer flavor, add a bit of vanilla extract to the potato mixture.
- If you enjoy more intense flavors, you can add a few drops of rum or brandy to the plum filling.

Nutritional information
This dessert is not only tasty but also nutritious. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, while plums provide a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories. However, it’s best to enjoy the dessert in moderation, especially due to the added sugar.

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

2. Can the dumplings be frozen?
Yes, they can be frozen. I recommend placing them in the freezer before boiling. When you want to enjoy them, boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

3. How can I make the dumplings less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the plum filling or use less ripe plums, which have a more tart flavor.

I hope this plum dumpling recipe inspires you to start cooking! It’s a perfect opportunity to bring your family and friends together, share joyful moments, and of course, enjoy a wonderful dessert. Happy cooking!