Beet Dumplings
I had beets that I wanted to use in something different. So I made these dumplings with cooked beets. The color came out so vibrant. We had them with dinner last night.
The flavor of the beet is somewhat muted in this little dumpling. These would be a nice side dish for all sorts of dishes. They would also be a fun addition to soup.
I do a very rustic version- just shape into rolls and slice dough off into 1/2 -inch thick pieces and boil them up. These could be made ahead and frozen, too. I considered calling them gnocchi, as they contain potatoes, too. They did remind me of gnocchi a bit, but they were a little denser. Call then what ever you like. They are fun and easy to make, too. My friend suggested maybe putting them through the spaetzle maker next time for a smaller version. I might just do that. So here is the recipe. Enjoy!!
Beet Dumplings
2 small russet potatoes, 11-12 oz. total, peeled, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
2 medium/small beets, roasted, skin on, cooled
1 egg
1/4 c. whipping cream or half and half – you could probably use milk, too. 1 1/4 t. salt
¼ t. dill weed
1 1/2 c. (about) flour
Steam potatoes over boiling water until tender, about 12 minutes. Place in bowl and mash or put potatoes through a ricer. Place in bowl and cool about 10 minutes. Remove skins from cooled beets and dice. Place beets in a food processor or blender. Add the cream and process until smooth. Combine beet mixture with potatoes, egg, salt and dill and mix well. Stir in flour and combine until slightly sticky dough forms. Add more flour a tablespoon at a time if the mixture is too moist. Turn dough onto lightly floured work surface and divide into 6 equal portions. Roll out 1 piece into a rope about 20-inches long by 3/4 inch. Cut dough into 3/4 -inch pieces and arrange finished dumplings in a single layer on a floured baking sheet and repeat the process with the remaining dough. Boil the dumplings in well-salted boiling water, about 1/3 at a time. Boil for 4-5 minutes. They will come to the surface and be tender. Check after 4 minutes. Serve with butter or with your favorite sauce or in a soup. Serves 6.
