Rediscovering potato dumplings: a humble dish makes a tasteful comeback

When pantries were empty, and supermarkets with a wide assortment weren't even a dream, resourceful housewives had to tap into their imaginations and create a meal from what was on hand. This lead to the creation of very simple yet substantial and tasty dishes. The potato was a big thing back then; although it's usually associated with pancakes, it is equally as wonderful in dumpling form.

To prepare these dumplings you need just three ingredients: potatoes, flour and eggs. A modest list, simple ingredients, and the result? Delicious, delicate dumplings which melt in your mouth. They pair perfectly with a garnish of bacon and onions, but can also serve as a side dish to meats and sauces. They can be repurposed into a sweet dish, with an addition of cream, yoghurt and sugar.

The taste will revive many people's childhood memories. Today, as we appreciate traditional recipes more and more, potato dumplings are making a comeback to our dining tables. Simply grate the potatoes, mix with eggs and flour, shape the dumplings and cook in salted water. It's not just cheap, but also quick.

Ingredients:

• Around 2.2 pounds (about 1 kg) of potatoes,
• About 1.1 pounds (roughly 500 grams) of flour,
• 2 eggs,
• Salt.

Preparation method:

1. Grate the potatoes or grind them in a machine. Add an egg, a pinch of salt and mix thoroughly.
2. Gradually add flour, moderating its amount by the consistency of the dough. The dough should be thicker than for potato pancakes.
3. Bring water to boil in a pot and add salt to it.
4. Take a portion of the dough on a spoon and drop small portions into the boiling water.
5. Cook until the dumplings float to the surface.
6. Using a slotted spoon, remove the dumplings and transfer them to a plate.

Once your dumplings are ready, serve them with your favourite add-ons. They taste great with fried sausage and onion, crumbled cottage cheese and bacon garnish, or paired with cottage cheese, sugar and cinnamon. Potato dumplings can also be served with stew, mushroom sauce, or dill sauce.