National Dumpling Day, celebrated every year on September 26th, is dedicated to honoring the delicious, versatile, and universally loved dumpling. Dumplings come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors and are a staple in many cultures worldwide. Whether boiled, steamed, fried, or baked, dumplings offer a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in countless ways. To celebrate this delightful day, let’s dive into the history of dumplings and try our hands at making two classic types: potato dumplings and flour dumplings.
The Rich History of Dumplings
Dumplings have a long and varied history, with origins tracing thousands of years. While the exact birthplace of dumplings is hard to pinpoint, they are known to have been a part of Chinese cuisine for over 1,800 years. Dumplings have been a traditional food in Europe for centuries, particularly in Eastern European countries like Poland and Germany.
In China, dumplings (or jiaozi) are often enjoyed during the Lunar New Year and symbolize wealth and prosperity. Gnocchi, a type of potato dumpling, is a beloved part of Italian cuisine and is usually served with a variety of sauces. Pierogi and vareniki are traditional comfort foods in Eastern Europe, stuffed dumplings made from flour dough.
Celebrating with Homemade Dumplings
Making homemade dumplings is a must to truly celebrate National Dumpling Day. Here are two delicious and straightforward recipes: one for potato dumplings, a European classic, and one for flour dumplings, perfect for soups and stews.
Potato Dumplings Recipe
Potato dumplings, also known as gnocchi in Italy, are soft, pillowy dumplings that pair beautifully with a variety of sauces.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) russet potatoes
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the potatoes until they are tender, about 45-60 minutes. Let them cool slightly, then peel and mash until smooth. You can also use a potato ricer for a finer texture.
Make the Dough: Spread the mashed potatoes on a floured surface and let them cool completely. Sprinkle the flour and salt over the potatoes. Make a well in the center and add the beaten egg. Gradually mix everything to form a dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Shape the Dumplings: Divide the dough into four portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) in diameter. Cut the ropes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces. If desired, roll each piece over the tines of a fork to create ridges.
Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dumplings in batches and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain well.
Serve: Serve the potato dumplings with your favorite sauce, such as marinara, pesto, or browned butter and sage.
Flour Dumplings Recipe
Flour dumplings are versatile and perfect for adding to soups and stews, providing a hearty and comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (180ml) milk
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine the milk, melted butter, and beaten egg in a separate bowl. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
Form the Dumplings: Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto a floured surface and gently roll into balls if desired.
Cook the Dumplings: If adding to soup or stew, drop the dough balls directly into the simmering liquid. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through. Please don’t lift the lid while cooking, as steam is essential for evenly cooking the dumplings.
Serve: Serve the flour dumplings hot, directly from the pot, ensuring each serving is accompanied by plenty of broth or stew.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
Making dumplings from scratch can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Not only do you get to savor the delicious results, but you also gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved food. Whether you prefer the pillowy softness of potato dumplings or the hearty texture of flour dumplings, these recipes will surely enhance your celebration of National Dumpling Day.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the delightful world of dumplings. Happy National Dumpling Day!
