Dumplings with Plums (Knedle ze Śliwkami): A Polish Taste of Tradition

Polish cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, and one of the most delightful examples is knedle ze śliwkami – dumplings stuffed with sweet, juicy plums. This dish, which combines the simplicity of peasant food with the elegance of a perfect balance of flavours, is a cherished treat across Poland, particularly in the late summer and early autumn when plums are in season.

A Brief History of Knedle

Knedle, derived from the German word “knödel” (which means dumpling), likely found its way into Polish kitchens through Central European culinary exchanges. Dumplings have long been a staple in Polish homes, with variations based on regional preferences and the availability of ingredients. While savoury dumplings filled with potatoes or meats are more common, sweet versions like knedle filled with fruit, especially plums, have a special place in the hearts of many.

In Poland, the śliwka (plum) variety is the most beloved filling for sweet dumplings. The plums add a burst of flavour, balancing the soft, pillowy dough with a juicy, tangy sweetness that’s enhanced by a sprinkle of sugar and a dollop of butter or cream.

Practical Tips & Recipe Notes!

• Prevent from sticking: Add a tablespoon of oil to a pot of water to prevent the dumplings from sticking together.
• Timing: After cooking the potatoes, immediately make the purée while they are still warm. If the potatoes are too cold, the purée will be very difficult to make.
• Cooling time: Do not leave the dumpling dough for too long after cooling, as it will thin out and make the dumplings more difficult.

---

📖 Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 kg of potatoes
• 750 g of purple plums
• 1,5 cup of flour (type 500 is the one I use, but you can also use all-purpose flour if you can’t find the polish one)
• 1 tbsp of potato starch
• 1 tbsp of (unsalted) butter
• 1 egg
• 3 tbsp of milk
• white sugar
• a pinch of salt

Optional:

• sour cream
• breadcrumbs and butter to make a roux

Instructions

• Wash the plums and remove the pits.
• I always replace the pit with a small spoonful of sugar or even a sugar cube to sweeten the filling.
• Boil peeled potatoes until they’re tender.
• After draining cooked potatoes, add a teaspoon of butter and milk.
• Mash them and make a purée.
• Leave the mix to cool down.
• Once they mix cooled, combine it with potato starch, flour, salt, and an egg to form a soft dough.
• It should be pliable but not sticky.
• Divide the dough into small portions, flatten each one, and wrap it around a whole plum (or half if the plums are large), encasing the fruit entirely.
• Once you have formed the dumpling, place it on a floured surface.
• Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil and gently lower the dumplings in.
• Cook for until they float to the surface.
• Once they’re done, remove them with a slotted spoon.
• Serve the dumplings warm, drizzled with melted butter and sprinkled with sugar.
• For an extra indulgence, top them with sour cream.

---

The Perfect Comfort Food

There’s something magical about the combination of the soft potato dough and the warm, juicy plum inside. The dumplings are tender on the outside, with a burst of fruity sweetness in every bite. The melted butter and sugar add richness without overpowering the natural flavours of the plum, making this dish feel indulgent yet homey.

Kneldle ze śliwkami are often enjoyed as a main course during a light meal, but they can also be served as a dessert or snack. They’re especially popular in the late summer and early autumn, coinciding with the plum harvest. For many Poles, the taste of these dumplings is nostalgic, evoking memories of childhood and family meals.

A Dish to Share

One of the most beautiful things about knedle ze śliwkami is the sense of community it fosters. Making dumplings is typically a group activity in Polish households, with family members gathering around the table to prepare and shape them. Sharing these dumplings is not just about enjoying a delicious meal – it’s about passing on traditions and spending quality time together.

So, if you’re looking to bring a little taste of Poland to your kitchen, try your hand at making knedle ze śliwkami. Whether you’re Polish by heritage or just a lover of comforting food, these plum-filled dumplings are sure to bring warmth and sweetness to your table.

Happy cooking!