Plum dumplings

Plum Dumplings – A Delicacy Sweetened by Memories

Who doesn't remember the moments spent around the table, savoring treats made with love? Plum dumplings are a simple yet flavorful dessert that evokes nostalgia and joy. This classic dish combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the juicy sweetness of plums, offering a perfect balance of flavors.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g potatoes
- 1 egg
- 150 g flour
- 5 tablespoons oil
- 200 g breadcrumbs
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch of cinnamon
- 1 pinch of salt
- Plums (approximately 500 g, depending on size)

A brief history of the recipe:
Plum dumplings have their roots in traditional cuisine, where simple ingredients were transformed into delicious dishes that brought smiles to the faces of loved ones. This dessert was often prepared during harvest time when plums were at their peak, providing an excellent way to enjoy fresh fruit.

Preparing plum dumplings:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes well. Boil them with their skins in salted water for about 20 minutes or until soft. After boiling, let them cool. This step is essential as the boiled potatoes will provide a fine texture to the dough.

2. Preparing the dough:
Once the potatoes have cooled, peel and mash them with a mixer or a fork. Add the egg and a pinch of salt to the potato puree, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and homogeneous. If it is too sticky, add a little extra flour.

3. Forming the dumplings:
Sprinkle a little flour on a work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 0.5 cm. Use a glass or a cookie cutter to form circles from the dough. Place a plum in the center of each circle, making sure to remove the pit. Wrap the plum in the dough, carefully shaping it into a uniform ball.

4. Boiling the dumplings:
In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt, then bring the water to a boil. Place the plum dumplings in the boiling water. The dumplings are ready when they rise to the surface, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

5. Preparing the breadcrumbs:
While the dumplings are boiling, melt 5 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet. Add the breadcrumbs and fry them over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden. Finally, add the sugar and cinnamon, mixing well to combine the flavors.

6. Finalizing the dish:
Once the dumplings are cooked, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain. Roll them in the fried breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Serving:
These delicious plum dumplings are served warm, possibly with a drizzle of sour cream or a vanilla sauce for added flavor. You can also add ground nuts for extra texture. They are perfect as a dessert after a traditional meal or as a sweet snack that will instantly bring smiles to the faces of loved ones.

Nutritional benefits:
Plum dumplings are a good source of carbohydrates due to the potatoes, providing energy. Plums are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin K), and antioxidants, positively impacting digestion. The combination of sugar and cinnamon adds a note of comfort and flavor, but it is advisable to consume the dessert in moderation, especially if you are watching your caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! Blackberries, peaches, or cherries can be excellent alternatives to add variety to the recipe.

2. What can I do with leftover dough?
If you have leftover dough, you can make smaller dumplings or a fruit-filled pie.

3. Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, dumplings can be frozen before boiling. Be sure to place them on a tray in the freezer, then store them in a freezer bag.

Tips for a perfect result:
- Ensure that the dough is not too wet; if necessary, add a little flour.
- If the dumplings do not rise to the surface, let them boil longer, but do not leave them too long to avoid soaking up water.
- It is important to fry the breadcrumbs over medium heat to avoid burning them.

Plum dumplings are more than just a simple dessert; they are a way to bring together family and friends, offering moments of joy and pleasure. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the inviting aroma of caramelized plums! Enjoy!