Plum dumplings

Plum Dumplings - An Explosion of Flavors and Nostalgia

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

I present to you a recipe for plum dumplings, a delicious dessert that combines tradition with the sweet flavors of summer. These dumplings are a perfect choice for a quick dessert, but also to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Additionally, it's a simple recipe, ideal for those who want to explore the secrets of cooking. Let's get started!

A Bit of History

Plum dumplings are a popular dessert in many cultures, based on simple ingredients but with a big impact in every bite. It is said that these dumplings were made in the past to celebrate the bountiful harvests of plums. This nostalgic dessert is often associated with childhood memories when grandmothers lovingly prepared these treats for the whole family.

Ingredients

- 17-18 medium plums
- 4 medium potatoes (approx. 500 g)
- 150 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- 3-4 tablespoons oil

Necessary Utensils

- A large pot for boiling
- A frying pan
- A cutting board or a deep plate
- A sieve for draining the dumplings

Step by Step

1. Preparing the plums
Start by washing the plums under cold running water, then dry them with a towel. Cut each plum on one side and remove the pit. Here comes the secret: fill the cavity left by the pit with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Use about 1 teaspoon of sugar and a tenth of the ground cinnamon for each plum. The sweet taste and the cinnamon aroma will combine perfectly inside the dumplings!

2. Boiling the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and place them in a pot of salted water. Let them boil until soft - about 20 minutes. After boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly. Mashing the potatoes is essential for achieving a smooth and fine dough.

3. Preparing the dough
Once the potatoes have cooled, mash them well. Add the eggs and flour, mixing until you get a homogeneous mixture. The dough will be slightly sticky, but don't worry! It will become easier to handle with the help of flour on your hands.

4. Shaping the dumplings
Sprinkle some flour on a clean cutting board. Take a handful of dough and form a ball. Flatten it slightly, place a plum filled with sugar and cinnamon in the center, and wrap the dough around it, forming a perfect ball. Place the dumplings on the floured board to prevent sticking.

5. Boiling the dumplings
Put a pot of water to boil. When the water starts to boil, add the dumplings, being careful not to overcrowd them. Boil them one by one, and when they rise to the surface, they are ready! This process takes about 5-7 minutes.

6. Finishing and serving
In a frying pan, add the oil and breadcrumbs. Mix well, frying the breadcrumbs until golden. Once the dumplings are boiled, drain them with a sieve and roll them in the fried breadcrumbs, ensuring each dumpling is evenly coated.

Serving Suggestions

Plum dumplings are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them with a drizzle of sour cream or a vanilla sauce for an extra touch of flavor. Also, add a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish for an elegant look.

Variations and Tips

- Filling variations: Instead of plums, you can also use other fruits, such as sour cherries or peaches, to add a personal touch to your recipe.
- Dough consistency: If the dough is too sticky, feel free to add more flour, but be careful not to use too much, as the dumplings may become dense.
- Oil for breadcrumbs: The oil can be replaced with melted butter for a richer taste.

Nutritional Benefits

This dessert contains simple yet nutrient-rich ingredients. Plums are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates necessary for energy. Additionally, plum dumplings can be a healthier choice than many other desserts if consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste, or alternative sweeteners, but adjust the amount based on the desired sweetness level.

- How can I store the dumplings?
Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan to bring them back to life.

- Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, dumplings can be frozen before boiling. Place them on a tray to freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container. Boil them directly from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time.

Now that you know all the secrets to preparing delicious plum dumplings, all that's left is to get to work and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Whether you serve them at a family meal or at a party, these dumplings are sure to please everyone. Enjoy your meal!