Dumplings with cherries

Cherry Dumplings – A Lenten Delight

Who can resist a warm dessert, full of flavors, perfectly combining the sweetness of cherries with the soft texture of the dough? Cherry dumplings are an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a sweet yet healthy snack. This dumpling recipe is a Lenten version, but you need not worry, as it is just as delicious as the traditional variant.

A Brief History
Cherry dumplings are an integral part of the culinary tradition in various cultures, often prepared during festive periods or on fasting days. These dumplings are adored by both children and adults, and their popularity has led to the emergence of regional variations, each with a touch of originality.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Required Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 500 g wheat flour (choose a high-quality flour for better texture)
- Water as needed (approximately 200-250 ml)
- A pinch of salt

- For the filling:
- 300 g cherries (pitted, fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon margarine (optional, to add a richer taste)
- Powdered sugar (for serving)

Preparing the Dumplings
1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for 20 minutes.

2. Filling the dumplings: Once the dough has cooled, sprinkle flour on a clean work surface and roll out the dough into a thin sheet of about 2-3 mm. Using a glass, cut circles from the dough. In the center of each circle, add two cherries. It’s good to drain the excess juice to avoid excessive moisture in the dumplings.

3. Forming the dumplings: Fold the dough circle in half, pressing the edges to seal them well. You can add a little water to the edges to ensure a better seal. Continue forming dumplings until you finish the dough.

4. Boiling the dumplings: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the dumplings with a wooden spoon, being careful not to let them stick to the bottom of the pot. Boil them for about 8 minutes, until they rise to the surface. This is the sign they are ready!

5. Finishing the dish: Using a slotted spoon, remove the dumplings and let them drain in a sieve. In a bowl, add the melted margarine and gently mix the dumplings to coat them evenly.

Serving
Cherry dumplings are served warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with raspberry syrup. Another delicious option is to serve them with yogurt or sour cream, which adds a note of freshness and flavor balance. If you want to experiment, try a rose sauce for an explosion of flavor!

Practical Tips
- If using frozen cherries, make sure to drain them well before use to avoid affecting the dough's consistency.
- Experiment with alternative fillings, such as strawberries, blackberries, or plums, to vary the recipe.
- Dumplings can also be frozen. After boiling, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When you want to consume them, boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Values
These cherry dumplings are not only delicious but also nutritious. Wheat flour provides complex carbohydrates, while cherries are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber. A standard serving of dumplings contains about 250-300 calories, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Yes, you can experiment with various fruits, such as cherries, peaches, or apples.

2. How can I make the dumplings lower in calories?
You can reduce the amount of margarine or opt for a vegetable oil version. Additionally, using less sweet fruits can decrease the caloric content.

3. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but adjustments in the amount of water may be necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

4. What drinks pair well with cherry dumplings?
A cold lemonade or a fruit tea, whether hot or cold, are excellent choices to complement this dessert.

Cherry dumplings are more than just a simple dessert – they are a culinary experience that brings joy and nostalgia. Try this recipe at home and turn every meal into a celebration!