Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than these delightful sauerkraut dumplings! This recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, this recipe fits the bill. It’s a fantastic option for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's dive into this classic recipe and learn how to make these perfect dumplings!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 12 dumplings. Adjust quantities as needed for your family.
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For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk (or buttermilk for a tangier flavor)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
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For the Filling:
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained well
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease or butter
- 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Let the dough rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in softer dumplings.
Preparing the Filling:
- While the dough rests, sauté the finely chopped onion in bacon grease or butter until softened.
- Add the drained sauerkraut and caraway seeds (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is slightly softened and the flavors have melded.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling and Cooking the Dumplings:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a 2-3 inch cookie cutter or a knife to cut out circles.
- Place a spoonful of the sauerkraut filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges for a pretty finish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through.
- Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
These sauerkraut dumplings are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with various dishes. Serve them as a side dish alongside roasted meats, or enjoy them as a hearty main course with a simple side salad. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a delightful finishing touch.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauerkraut filling.
- If you don’t have bacon grease, you can use vegetable oil or butter.
- Feel free to experiment with other fillings, such as ground meat, mushrooms, or cheese.
- For a richer flavor, use buttermilk instead of regular milk in the dough.
- If you prefer smaller dumplings, use a smaller cookie cutter or cut the dough into smaller squares.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy recipe for sauerkraut dumplings offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of food recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish!