Plum or Apricot Dumplings

Moldovan Plum or Apricot Dumplings Recipe - Delicious and Authentic

Region / culture: Moldova | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Plum or Apricot Dumplings are a delicious and traditional Eastern European dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe fruit with a soft and pillowy potato dough. These dumplings are a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you are looking for a comforting dessert or a unique dish to impress your guests.

History

Plum or Apricot Dumplings have a long history in Eastern European cuisine, particularly in countries like Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to make it their own. The combination of sweet fruit and savory potato dough creates a unique and delightful flavor that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

1 lb (500 g) potatoes
2 eggs
2-3 tbsp flour
salt
1 lb (500 g) plums or apricots
3 tbsp butter
2 tbsp bread crumbs
0.5 cup confectioner's sugar

How to prepare

Boil well-washed potatoes in their jackets.
Once done, peel them and crush them using a potato press or grind them.
Place the potato paste in a bowl and mix it with the eggs, flour, one teaspoon of sugar, and a little salt.
Shape the mixture into a roll that is three fingers thick.
Cut the roll into pieces that are one finger thick.
Flatten each piece with your hand and place a pitless plum or apricot on top of each one.
Roll each piece into a ball using your floured hand.
Once all the dumplings are made, boil them in salt water.
When they rise to the surface, they are done.
Remove them with a slotted spoon and roll them in breadcrumbs that have been previously fried in butter, ensuring that each dumpling is completely covered in breadcrumbs.
Place the dumplings on a serving plate and sprinkle them with vanilla confectioner's sugar.
Serve them warm.

Variations

You can use different fruits such as cherries or peaches instead of plums or apricots.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and spicy flavor.
Drizzle the dumplings with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe and juicy plums or apricots for the best flavor in your dumplings.

- Be careful not to overwork the dough when shaping the dumplings, as this can make them tough.

- Boil the dumplings in gently simmering water to prevent them from falling apart.

- Rolling the dumplings in breadcrumbs adds a delicious crunch and flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Plum or Apricot Dumplings can be served as a dessert on their own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the dumplings in salted water ensures that they cook through evenly and become light and fluffy. Rolling them in breadcrumbs and butter adds a delicious crunch and flavor to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and texture.

- Substitute almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the dumplings.

- Use coconut oil or margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and shape the dumplings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes it easy to have a fresh and delicious dessert ready in no time.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Plum or Apricot Dumplings on a serving platter and sprinkle them with extra confectioner's sugar for a beautiful and elegant presentation. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Plum or Apricot Dumplings pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting dessert experience. They also go well with a glass of sweet dessert wine for a more indulgent treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Plum or Apricot Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a few seconds or steam them until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Plum or Apricot Dumplings contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a satisfying and indulgent dessert option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Plum or Apricot Dumplings contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Plum or Apricot Dumplings contains approximately 10 grams of fats. Fats are important for providing energy, supporting cell growth, and aiding in the absorption of vitamins.

Proteins

Each serving of Plum or Apricot Dumplings contains approximately 5 grams of proteins. Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting immune function.

Vitamins and minerals

Plum or Apricot Dumplings are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. These vitamins and minerals are important for supporting overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Plum or Apricot Dumplings contain gluten from the flour used in the dough. They may also contain dairy from the butter used in the recipe. Please be mindful of these allergens if you have dietary restrictions.

Summary

Plum or Apricot Dumplings are a delicious and satisfying dessert option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious treat for any occasion.

Summary

Plum or Apricot Dumplings are a delightful and traditional Eastern European dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe fruit with a soft and pillowy potato dough. This recipe is a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you are looking for a comforting dessert or a unique dish to impress your guests. Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of these dumplings with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Agnes in her quaint little cottage on the outskirts of town. Agnes was known for her delicious baked goods, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest creations.

As I stepped inside her cozy kitchen, the aroma of freshly baked bread and cinnamon filled the air. Agnes greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a special treat for you today, my dear," she said, as she led me to the kitchen table where a plate of golden brown dumplings sat, glistening with a sticky sweet glaze.

"These are my famous plum dumplings," Agnes explained, as she handed me a fork. "I learned the recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother before her. It's been passed down through the generations, and now I want to pass it on to you."

I took a bite of the dumpling and was immediately transported to a world of sweet and tangy flavors. The plums were perfectly cooked, bursting with juiciness, and the dough was light and fluffy, with just a hint of cinnamon. It was love at first bite.

Agnes saw the delight on my face and chuckled. "I knew you would love them," she said. "I have a feeling this recipe will become a favorite in your own kitchen."

And she was right. From that day on, I made Agnes' plum dumplings regularly, each time savoring the memories of that first taste in her kitchen. But as the years passed, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own.

I started by substituting plums with apricots, which added a slightly different flavor profile to the dumplings. The apricots were tender and sweet, with a hint of tartness that complemented the dough perfectly. I also added a touch of almond extract to the dough, which gave it a subtle nutty flavor that enhanced the overall taste of the dumplings.

As I continued to make the dumplings, I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious they were. It became a staple at family gatherings and potluck dinners, and I was always happy to see the smiles on their faces as they enjoyed each bite.

One day, my granddaughter came to visit me and asked if she could help me in the kitchen. I was delighted to have her by my side, and I knew immediately that it was time to pass on the recipe for my plum or apricot dumplings to her.

As we worked together, kneading the dough and shaping the dumplings, I told her the story of how I first learned the recipe from Agnes and how I had made it my own over the years. I could see the excitement in her eyes as she listened intently, eager to learn the secrets of this beloved family recipe.

After we had finished making the dumplings, my granddaughter took a bite and her face lit up with joy. "These are amazing, Grandma!" she exclaimed. "I can't wait to make them for my friends."

I smiled proudly at her, knowing that the tradition of making plum or apricot dumplings would continue to be passed down through the generations. And as I watched my granddaughter carry on the legacy of this treasured recipe, I knew that the memories of discovering it for the first time would forever hold a special place in my heart.