Cheese dumplings with strawberry jam recipe

Cheese Dumplings with Strawberry Jam - A Traditional Delicacy

If you are looking for a dessert that combines tradition with an unforgettable taste, cheese dumplings with strawberry jam are the perfect choice. This simple yet flavorful recipe will transport you to storybook times when desserts were made with love and attention to detail. Cheese dumplings are, in fact, a specialty that has won the hearts of many due to their fluffy texture and delicious combination with various jams. Get ready to delight your taste buds!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:
- 300 g cottage cheese (ideally well-drained cottage cheese)
- 120 g flour (you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 egg (opt for a free-range egg for a more intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjustable according to preferences)
- ½ packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (you can also use vanilla extract for a deeper flavor)
- For serving: strawberry jam (a homemade jam recipe is ideal)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the Dough:
In a large bowl, add the well-drained cottage cheese. Use a fork to mash it until you achieve a fine texture. Add the egg, sugar, and vanilla sugar, mixing well. This combination will give the dumplings a delicious taste.

2. Incorporating the Flour:
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Then, gradually start incorporating the flour mixture into the cheese mixture. It is important to mix gently to avoid developing too much gluten, which could make the dumplings denser.

3. Shaping the Dumplings:
Once you have a homogeneous dough, take a portion of it and shape it into balls with your hands. Flatten them slightly and make a small indentation in the middle, ensuring they will bake evenly. This is a crucial step for achieving fluffy and delicious dumplings.

4. Frying:
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Test the oil temperature by adding a small piece of dough; if it rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Fry the dumplings on both sides until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

5. Serving:
Arrange the dumplings on a plate and serve them warm, generously topped with strawberry jam. Give them a special touch with a few fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar. Dumplings also pair wonderfully with chocolate sauce or sour cream.

Practical Tips:
- Use fresh, well-drained cottage cheese to avoid a too wet dough.
- Experiment with different types of flour to achieve a different texture.
- If you want a lighter version, replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.
- You can add lemon or orange flavor to the dough for a fresh taste.

Nutritional Benefits:
Cheese dumplings are a good source of protein due to the cheese and egg. While flour is a source of carbohydrates, it also provides energy. The strawberry jam adds vitamins and antioxidants, making this dessert a healthier choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can try ricotta or goat cheese, but make sure the texture is similar.

- What other jams can I use?
Dumplings also pair excellently with sour cherry jam, blueberry jam, or even peach compote.

- Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze the fried dumplings. You can reheat them in the oven to make them crispy again.

Cheese dumplings with strawberry jam are more than just a simple dessert; they are an invitation to beautiful memories and joyful moments. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will make you come back to it time and again. Enjoy!