Plum Dumplings with Breadcrumbs

Plum Dumplings with Breadcrumbs: A Delicacy that Combines Tradition with Flavor

Plum dumplings, also known as gombotii, are a beloved dessert that evokes childhood memories for many of us. These little delights are a symbol of joy and conviviality, perfect for enjoying alongside loved ones. Preparing them is both an art and a pleasure, and the final result is a dessert that will delight your senses. In this detailed guide, I will teach you how to make the finest plum dumplings, providing you with all the necessary tricks to achieve a perfect result.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes (preferably new and starchy)
- Plums (about 500 g, left with sugar for an hour beforehand for a sweeter taste)
- 1 cup sugar (for the dough and for the breadcrumb mixture)
- 1/2 cup semolina
- 1 cup flour
- A pinch of salt
- 200 g breadcrumbs
- 50 g butter
- 2 eggs

A bit of history
Plum dumplings have a long tradition, being a cherished dessert in various cultures. They were originally conceived as seasonal food when plums were in full harvest. Dumplings are often associated with family memories, being made in households with love and care. This recipe is an invitation to rediscover culinary traditions and transform a simple ingredient, such as potatoes, into something special.

Step by step: how to prepare plum dumplings

1. Boiling the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into cubes. Boil them in a pot of salted water until they become soft (about 15-20 minutes). It is important not to add too much salt, just a pinch to highlight the natural taste of the potatoes.

2. Mashing the potatoes: After the potatoes are boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly. Use a potato masher to turn them into a fine puree. Make sure there are no lumps left – the texture is essential for the final consistency of the dumplings.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the potato puree, eggs, sugar, semolina, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous dough. If it is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it, so as not to weigh down the texture of the dumplings.

4. Shaping the dumplings: Sprinkle flour on a work surface and form a roll from the dough, about 2 cm thick. Cut the roll into pieces of about 5 cm. In each piece, make an indentation with your finger and place a plum in the middle, which you can sprinkle with a little sugar beforehand. Wrap the plum in the dough, forming a ball, making sure the plums are completely covered.

5. Boiling the dumplings: Put a large pot of water to boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the dumplings. Let them boil until they rise to the surface (about 5-6 minutes). After they have risen, boil them for another 5-6 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.

6. Preparing the breadcrumbs: In a pan, melt the butter and add the breadcrumbs and sugar. Sauté the mixture until it becomes golden and crispy. This will add a delicious texture to your dumplings.

7. Finalizing the dish: Remove the dumplings from the water and shake them gently to remove excess water. Then, coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure they are evenly covered.

8. Serving: Plum dumplings are served warm, alongside a glass of freshly squeezed juice or fruit compote. You can decorate them with a little powdered sugar for a more attractive appearance and an extra touch of sweetness.

Useful tips:
- Use new potatoes, which have a higher starch content; they help achieve a finer texture.
- The plums should be ripe but not overly soft; this way, they will hold their shape during boiling.
- If you want to experiment, try replacing the plums with other fruits, such as peaches or cherries, for a seasonal variation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned potatoes for this recipe?
- It is not recommended, as the texture will not be the same. Fresh potatoes are essential for a fine puree.

2. How can I store the dumplings?
- Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. I recommend reheating them in a pan with a little butter to regain their crispiness.

3. What are the calories for a serving of plum dumplings?
- A serving contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and butter used.

Nutritional benefits:
Plum dumplings are a good source of carbohydrates, providing you with quick energy. Plums are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, aiding digestion and improving heart health. In addition, this dessert will bring you joy and comfort, making it perfect for any occasion.

Now that you have all the necessary information, put on your apron and get cooking! Plum dumplings are not just a dessert but an experience full of tradition and love. Enjoy your meal!