Spring dumplings with wild garlic are a real celebration of the awakening nature and its first gift after winter – wild garlic. This recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a tribute to spring renewal, when the earth turns green and the forests fill with life. Bear’s garlic, with its characteristic but mild garlic aroma, is one of the first herbs to herald the arrival of warmer days. Its use in the kitchen brings not only a unique taste, but also a piece of forest directly to our table.
Spring dumplings are the ideal way to turn this unique gift of nature into a delicious and filling meal. They are small pieces of comfort that can turn any meal into a festive spring feast. Prepared with love and care, these dumplings are a perfect example of how simple cuisine can be surprisingly sophisticated.
The Spring Garlic Spring Dumplings recipe pays homage to traditional cooking methods, where every step from tearing off the wild garlic leaves to cooking the dumplings in bubbling water is done with the thought of creating something truly special. This dish is proof that the simplicity and purity of ingredients can lead to the creation of dishes that are not only nutritious and healthy, but also extraordinarily tasty.
Spring dumplings with wild garlic are more than just a simple dish; they are an expression of joy at the arrival of spring, admiration for nature and gratitude for its gifts. They are an invitation to the table where family and friends come together to celebrate the awakening earth and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that revives traditional flavors and aromas.
Recipe Spring dumplings
Ingredients
Dough
- 500 g plain flour
- 200 ml of warm water
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Filling
- 200 g of wild garlic, finely chopped
- 250 g of cottage cheese or ricotta
- 100 g of grated cheese (e.g. Gouda or Mozzarella)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped and fried in oil until golden (optional)
Procedure
- Mix the flour, warm water, egg, salt and olive oil in a bowl. Work into a smooth and elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour. Let the dough rest, covered, in a cool place for about 30 minutes.
- Mix finely chopped wild garlic, cottage cheese or ricotta, grated cheese, salt and pepper in a bowl. Add the fried onions, if using. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- On a floured work surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of approximately 3 mm. Use a cup or a mold to cut out circles of dough.
- Put a teaspoon of filling on each wheel of dough. Wet the edges of the dough lightly with water, fold in half and press the edges firmly to form pirogues. Make sure they are tightly sealed so they don’t open during cooking. possibly cover with another wheel and press the edges firmly.
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for approximately 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain.
- Serve the dumplings immediately after cooking, drizzled with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkled with fresh wild garlic or spring herbs for extra flavor.
Spring dumplings with wild garlic questions and answers
What is wild garlic and where can I find it?
Wild garlic is a spring herb that grows in shady, moist forests. It is known for its mild garlic smell and taste. You can find it in the forests of Europe and some parts of Asia, or you can buy it at farmers’ markets or specialty food stores during its season in the spring.
What are the benefits of eating wild garlic?
Bear garlic is rich in vitamin C, iron and has antioxidant properties. Antibacterial and detoxifying effects are also attributed to it. Its consumption can be beneficial for improving immunity and overall health.
Can I replace wild garlic with regular garlic or another herb?
Yes, if you don’t have access to wild garlic, you can use plain garlic or spinach with a bit of garlic added for a similar effect. The resulting taste will be different, but still tasty.
Can spring dumplings with wild garlic be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked dumplings after they have cooled. Place them on a baking sheet so they don’t touch, and once frozen, transfer them to freezer bags. To use, thaw them and then reheat them in a steamer or pan.
How long does fresh wild garlic last?
Fresh wild garlic will keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped in a damp paper towel for about a week. For a longer shelf life, you can pickle or dry wild garlic leaves.
What are spring dumplings with wild garlic best served with?
These dumplings are delicious on their own with a little butter or sour cream on top. It is also great as a side dish to meat or vegetable dishes. For a lighter version, you can serve them with a fresh salad.
How can I ensure that the dumplings do not fall apart during cooking?
It is important to carefully press the edges of the dough when forming the dumplings so that they are tightly closed. Also, make sure the water is already boiling when you put the dumplings in, and cook them on low heat so the water doesn’t boil too violently.
Can I cook or change the filling according to my choice?
Yes, you can adjust the filling according to your preferences. You can add crushed garlic, other types of cheese, or even pieces of grilled meat for a more filling option.
