Bhutanese-inspired Spinach Dumplings

Ingredients

In this Bhutanese-inspired adaptation, we have incorporated traditional Bhutanese spices such as cardamom, turmeric, and cumin to infuse the dumplings with a unique Himalayan flavor. Additionally, we have replaced some of the original ingredients with Bhutanese alternatives, such as using Bhutanese red rice bread instead of regular bread. We alse have the original recipe for Serviettenknödel, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) spinach, blanched and finely chopped 500g (1.1 lb) spinach, blanched and finely chopped
• 300g (10.6 oz) Bhutanese red rice bread, crust removed and cubed 300g (10.6 oz) Bhutanese red rice bread, crust removed and cubed
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 150ml (2/3 cup) milk 150ml (2/3 cup) milk
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 6g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the blanched and chopped spinach to the pan and cook for a few minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. 3.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach mixture, cubed Bhutanese red rice bread, ground cardamom, turmeric, cumin, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. 4.
   Let the mixture rest for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. 5.
   Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into dumplings.
6. 6.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently place the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. 7.
   Once cooked, remove the dumplings from the water using a slotted spoon and let them drain on a plate lined with a kitchen towel.
8. 8.
   Serve the Bhutanese-inspired Spinach Dumplings hot, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cumin and accompanied by your favorite Bhutanese side dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bhutanese red rice bread — If you can't find Bhutanese red rice bread, you can substitute it with any crusty bread of your choice. However, using Bhutanese red rice bread adds a unique flavor and texture to the dumplings.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro or mint leaves to the dumpling mixture.
• Serve the dumplings with a side of Bhutanese chili sauce for an extra kick of heat.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the spinach mixture before adding it to the bread cubes.

Serving advice

Serve the Bhutanese-inspired Spinach Dumplings as a main course accompanied by a fresh Bhutanese salad or as a side dish to complement a Bhutanese-inspired feast.

Presentation advice

Arrange the dumplings on a platter, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cumin, and serve them alongside colorful Bhutanese side dishes to create an enticing and visually appealing presentation.