Transylvanian Potato and Cheese Dumplings
Găluște de cartofi cu brânză are a delightful Transylvanian specialty, these soft and savory dumplings are made from mashed potatoes, cheese, and flour, then boiled until tender. They are often served as a side dish or a light main course, typically with sour cream and dill.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 150 g Telemea cheese (or feta), crumbled
- 150 g All-purpose flour
- 1 Egg
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped (for serving)
- to taste Sour cream (for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps. Let them cool slightly.
💡 Tip: Using a potato ricer will ensure the smoothest mash. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, crumbled telemea cheese (or feta), egg, and salt. Mix well until everything is incorporated.
💡 Tip: Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the potato mixture. - 3
Gradually add the flour to the potato mixture, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. You may not need all the flour, or you might need a little more, depending on the moisture content of the potatoes.
💡 Tip: The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add flour slowly to avoid making the dumplings tough. - 4
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. While the water heats, shape the dough into small, uniform dumplings. You can roll them into small balls or flatten them slightly.
💡 Tip: Uniform size ensures even cooking. - 5
Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding the pot. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through.
💡 Tip: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain a steady boil and prevent sticking. - 6
Remove the cooked dumplings from the water using a slotted spoon. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: Drain them well to prevent them from becoming waterlogged. - 7
Serve the dumplings warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped dill.
💡 Tip: These are delicious as a side dish to meat or as a vegetarian main course.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure potatoes are well-drained after boiling to prevent a watery dough.
- ✓If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a tiny bit of milk or water.
- ✓Telemea cheese is traditional, but feta is a good substitute if telemea is unavailable.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped chives or parsley into the dough for extra flavor.
- Serve with a light mushroom sauce or a simple butter sauce.
- For a sweeter version, omit the cheese and salt, and serve with fruit jam or stewed fruit.