Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings Recipe {Szilvás Gombóc}

Hungarian Plum Dumplings, also known as Szilvás Gombóc, are a traditional Hungarian dessert made with sweet plums wrapped in a potato-based dough. The dumplings are boiled and then coated in buttery breadcrumbs, creating a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors.

The key ingredients used in this recipe include plums (preferably Italian plums), potatoes, all-purpose flour, breadcrumbs, sugar, butter, cinnamon, and powdered sugar (for dusting). Some variations may also include ingredients like ground nuts or vanilla sugar for added flavor.

To prepare Hungarian Plum Dumplings, start by boiling and mashing the potatoes until smooth. Mix the mashed potatoes with flour to form a dough. Divide the dough into small portions and flatten them into discs. Place a pitted plum in the center of each disc and wrap the dough around the plum, forming a dumpling. Boil the dumplings until they float to the surface, then transfer them to a pan with melted butter and breadcrumbs. Cook until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Serve the dumplings sprinkled with powdered sugar and a touch of cinnamon.

Yes, it is possible to make Hungarian Plum Dumplings with a gluten-free dough. Instead of using all-purpose flour, you can use a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Be sure to follow a gluten-free recipe or adapt a traditional recipe using gluten-free ingredients. Keep in mind that gluten-free dough may have a slightly different texture, so the dumplings may be a bit softer compared to those made with wheat flour.

While plums are the traditional choice for Hungarian Plum Dumplings, you can experiment with other fruits if desired. Apricots or small peaches can be a good substitute, as they have a similar texture and work well with the dough. Just make sure to choose fruits that are not overly juicy to prevent the dumplings from becoming too soggy during cooking.

Yes, there are a few variations to the traditional Hungarian Plum Dumplings. Some recipes incorporate ground nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, into the dough or breadcrumb coating for added flavor and texture. Others may infuse the dough with flavors like lemon zest or vanilla extract. These variations can add a delightful twist to the classic recipe and allow for personalization based on individual preferences.

Yes, Hungarian Plum Dumplings can be frozen for later enjoyment. To freeze, arrange the cooked dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer the dumplings to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw the dumplings in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in a steamer or by gently boiling them until heated through.

Hungarian Plum Dumplings are traditionally served with melted butter and a sprinkling of breadcrumbs. However, you can also serve them with a warm vanilla custard sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar mixed with ground cinnamon. These additions complement the flavors of the dumplings and add an extra touch of indulgence to the dessert.