Textual Chef

Plum Dumplings

Whole small plums encased in a pillowy potato dough, boiled until tender, then rolled in buttery toasted breadcrumbs and cinnamon sugar — a beloved Hungarian szilvas gomboc that doubles as a dessert or sweet main course.

75 minMediumServes 6290 cal/serving

HungarianDessertStovetopVegetarianNut-Free

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes, boiled, riced or mashed
  • 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 12 small Italian prune plums (or damson plums), halved, pitted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2/3 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine the warm 2 lbs boiled, riced or mashed russet potatoes with the 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 lightly beaten large egg, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not overwork. Add a little more flour if needed so the dough can be handled.

  2. 2

    Mix together the 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling) and half the 1 tsp ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Place a pinch of cinnamon sugar into each halved, pitted small Italian prune plums (or damson plums) half and press the halves back together to reform the plum.

  3. 3

    On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into equal portions — one per plum. Flatten each portion into a disc about 1/4 inch thick. Place a stuffed plum in the center and wrap the dough around it completely, sealing the edges tightly. Roll gently between your palms to form a smooth ball.

  4. 4

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Working in batches, gently lower the dumplings in and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they float and the dough is cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.

  5. 5

    In a large skillet, melt the 6 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 2/3 cup plain dry breadcrumbs and the remaining ground cinnamon and 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping). Toast, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and fragrant.

  6. 6

    Add the drained dumplings to the skillet and gently roll them in the buttery breadcrumbs until coated. Dust with 2 tbsp powdered sugar and serve immediately.

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