Dumplings with potatoes and cracklings

Potato and cracklings dumplings: a recipe from memories

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

A walk down the memory lanes of childhood often reminds us of the tables filled with lovingly cooked delicacies. Potato and cracklings dumplings are a traditional dish, full of flavor, evoking beautiful moments spent with family. This simple yet extremely tasty recipe harmoniously combines the soft texture of the dough with the potato filling and the crunchiness of the cracklings. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare these delicious dumplings, bringing a touch of the past to your plate.

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 egg
- 200 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt

Ingredients for the filling:
- 500 g potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 tablespoons oil or lard
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for the cracklings:
- 300 g bacon or pork belly

Preparing the dough:
1. In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg and warm water. Gently mix with a fork, gradually incorporating the flour.
2. When the dough begins to form, transfer it to a floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the gluten to develop, making the dough easier to roll out.

Preparing the potato filling:
1. Peel the potatoes or alternatively, wash them well and boil them with their skins in salted water until soft (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Once boiled, drain and mash them to obtain a fine puree. If you boiled them with skins, ensure you mash them well without large chunks.
3. In a frying pan, add the oil or lard and sauté the finely chopped onion until golden and fragrant. Then, add it to the potato puree.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well. Let the filling cool as it will be used cold for stuffing the dumplings.

Preparing the cracklings:
1. Cut the bacon or pork belly into small cubes and place them in a cold frying pan. This is the secret to making them crispy.
2. Heat the pan over low heat, allowing the fat to melt gradually. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.
3. When the cracklings become golden and crispy, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over them for a delicious taste.

Forming the dumplings:
1. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet, about 2-3 mm thick.
2. Use a glass or a cookie cutter to cut circles from the dough.
3. Place a teaspoon of the potato filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dumplings in half and press the edges with your fingers to seal them well. You can use a fork to create a pattern on the edges, adding a rustic and attractive look.
4. Repeat the process until you finish the dough and filling.

Boiling the dumplings:
1. In a large pot of boiling water, add a little salt. Carefully place the dumplings in the water, being careful not to overcrowd.
2. Boil them for 5-7 minutes or until the dumplings rise to the surface. This is the sign they are ready!
3. Remove them with a slotted spatula and let them drain.

Serving:
Potato dumplings are served warm, topped with crispy cracklings and optionally with sour cream. On fasting days, you can omit the cracklings and serve them with fried onions for a perfect taste. This dumpling recipe is not only nourishing but also full of nostalgia, bringing joy to festive tables.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with various fillings, adding cheese or mushrooms to diversify the taste.
- If you want a healthier version, you can boil the dumplings instead of frying them.
- Dumplings can be frozen. After boiling, let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the freezer.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use sweet potatoes for the filling? Yes, sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor and vibrant color.
2. How can I store leftover dumplings? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for 2-3 days.
3. What other dishes can be served alongside? A summer salad or a light soup are excellent options to complement the meal.

Potato and cracklings dumplings are a perfect choice for a family dinner or to impress guests. Try this traditional recipe and enjoy every bite!