The best potatoes for dumplings are starchy potatoes, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes. Starchy potatoes have a higher starch content, which helps create a fluffy and light texture in the dumplings. These types of potatoes also tend to break down more easily when cooked, making them ideal for mashing and forming the dumpling dough.
Here's a basic recipe for making potato dumplings:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds starchy potatoes (Russet or Idaho)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Cooking the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into chunks to ensure even cooking. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Mashing the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, mash the potatoes thoroughly using a potato masher or a ricer. It's crucial to get a smooth and lump-free consistency.
Forming the Dough: Add the beaten egg and a pinch of salt to the mashed potatoes. Mix well. Gradually add the flour to the potato mixture, starting with 1 1/2 cups. Stir until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky. Add more flour as needed until the dough is soft and pliable but not overly sticky.
Shaping the Dumplings: Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion into a long rope on a lightly floured surface. Cut the ropes into small pieces to form individual dumplings. You can shape them into small balls or use the traditional "gnocchi" shape by pressing the dumplings gently with a fork or using a gnocchi board.
Cooking the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water in batches (do not overcrowd the pot). Cook the dumplings for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Once they float, let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.
Serving: Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked dumplings from the pot and place them on a serving dish. You can serve the dumplings with your favorite sauce, such as tomato sauce, pesto, butter, or a creamy cheese sauce. Optionally, you can sauté the cooked dumplings in a bit of butter or olive oil to add a crispy texture.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting potato dumplings! They make a delightful side dish or can even be served as a main course with a flavorful sauce.