Blackberry Dumplings are a delightful dessert that combines the juicy, tart flavor of blackberries with soft, pillowy dumplings in a sweet and fragrant sauce. This dish is a heartwarming treat, perfect for ending any meal on a high note, and is especially comforting during the cooler months or whenever fresh blackberries are in season.
Ingredients:
For the Berry Mixture:
- 1 quart fresh or frozen blackberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract
For the Dumplings:
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅔ cup milk
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by preparing the blackberry mixture. In a large, wide saucepan, combine the blackberries, water, 1 cup of sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, and lemon extract. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and evenly cook the berries.
Step 2: Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This process allows the blackberries to release their juices and create a flavorful syrup.
Step 3: While the berry mixture is simmering, prepare the dumpling batter. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and nutmeg. Add the milk to the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
Step 4: With the berry mixture at a gentle simmer, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter directly into the saucepan. Be sure to space the dumplings evenly so they have room to expand and cook.
Step 5: Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and allow the dumplings to simmer for 15 minutes. It’s important not to lift the lid during this time, as the steam helps to cook the dumplings evenly.
Step 6: After 15 minutes, check the dumplings; they should be puffed up and cooked through. Turn off the heat and let the dish stand for a few minutes before serving.
COOKING Note:
The dumplings should be light and fluffy when fully cooked. If they seem dense or undercooked, let them simmer for a few extra minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the blackberry dumplings hot, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream to complement the tartness of the berries.
Tips:
- If using frozen blackberries, there's no need to thaw them before cooking; you can add them directly to the saucepan.
- Adjust the sugar in the berry mixture according to the sweetness of the blackberries and your personal taste preference.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving
- Protein: 4-5 grams
- Sodium: 150-200 mg
Conclusion
Blackberry Dumplings are a simple yet satisfying dessert that offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is an excellent way to enjoy the natural sweetness of blackberries, enhanced with the comforting touch of homemade dumplings.
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