Macedonian Prune Dumplings

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Macedonian Prune Dumplings.

1. Step 1

   Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the dry bread crumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes. Once done, set the toasted crumbs aside to cool.

2. Step 2

   Next, place the peeled russet potatoes in a pot of water and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Let them cook until they are tender, which will take around 20 to 30 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool for a few minutes to dry out. Then, using a potato ricer, squeeze the potatoes into a bowl for a fluffy texture.

3. Step 3

   Incorporate 1 tablespoon of butter into the riced potatoes, allowing it to melt. Then, mix in the all-purpose flour until everything is thoroughly combined. Add in the egg and a pinch of salt, and stir until the mixture forms a cohesive dough.

4. Step 4

   Turn the dough out onto a generously floured surface and knead it gently for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes soft and no longer sticky. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your dumplings!

5. Step 5

   Once your dough is ready, divide it into quarters, and then subdivide each quarter into four pieces, giving you a total of 16 portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it out on a floured surface until it forms a circle about 3 1/2 inches in diameter.

6. Step 6

   Now comes the fun part! Place a pitted Italian prune in the center of each dough circle, and spoon a teaspoon of white sugar into the plum. Carefully roll and pinch the dough around the plum to seal it tightly. Repeat this process until all your dumplings are formed.

7. Step 7

   Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil over medium heat. Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water, stirring carefully to prevent them from sticking to the bottom. Once they rise to the surface, let them boil for an additional 5 minutes.

8. Step 8

   Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the dumplings from the water and roll them in the toasted bread crumbs to coat. Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors! If you have any leftover dough, feel free to roll it into plain dumplings, boil them, and coat them in crumbs as well.