Step into the heart of Scandinavian cuisine with a taste of Mom’s Original Kumla Recipe. Kumla, also known as klubb, kumle, or komle, is a traditional Norwegian and Swedish potato dumpling often served with ham, bacon, or butter. Passed down through generations, this cherished recipe brings warmth and comfort to the table with its hearty ingredients and rich flavors. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll delve into the history of Kumla, guide you through preparing Mom’s authentic recipe, address common questions, provide cooking tips and variations, and offer keto and low-carb versions for those with dietary preferences. Get ready to experience the essence of tradition with this beloved Scandinavian dish!
Ingredients
Meat:
- 1 (5 pound) unsmoked bone-in ham
- 3 slices Bacon
Produce:
- 5 lbs Russet potatoes
Baking & Spices:
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 2 tsp Salt
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Dairy:
- 1 1/2 cups Whole wheat flour, stone ground
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Place the unsmoked bone-in ham in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer the ham for 2-3 hours, or until it is tender and cooked through.
- Cook the Bacon: In a separate skillet, fry the bacon slices until they are crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and quarter the Russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and lump-free.
- Prepare the Dough: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Gradually add the flour mixture to the mashed potatoes, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
- Form the Dumplings: Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a ball, approximately 2 inches in diameter.
- Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook them for 20-25 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the cooked dumplings from the pot with a slotted spoon and place them on a serving platter. Serve the Kumla dumplings hot, accompanied by slices of ham and crispy bacon.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Make-Ahead Option: Kumla dumplings can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them in boiling water for a few minutes before serving to ensure they are warm and tender.
- Vegetarian Variation: For a vegetarian version of Kumla, omit the ham and bacon and serve the dumplings with melted butter or a savory vegetarian gravy.
- Sweet Variation: Kumla dumplings can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat by adding a touch of sugar to the dough and serving them with a drizzle of honey or fruit preserves.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make gluten-free Kumla dumplings, substitute the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can adapt Mom’s Original Kumla Recipe:
- Keto Version: Replace the Russet potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb alternative. Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour. Serve the dumplings with keto-friendly ham and bacon.
- Low-Carb Version: Similar to the keto version, use cauliflower instead of potatoes and almond flour or coconut flour for the dumpling dough. Keep the toppings low-carb by choosing lean cuts of ham and sugar-free bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to use your preferred type of ham for this recipe, whether it’s smoked, cured, or spiral-cut. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type and size of the ham.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Kumla dumplings? A: Yes, Kumla dumplings freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat them in boiling water or the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the dumpling dough? A: Absolutely! Get creative with your Kumla dumplings by adding grated cheese, chopped herbs, or minced garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
Mom’s Original Kumla Recipe is a timeless dish that honors the rich culinary heritage of Scandinavia. With its tender dumplings, savory ham, and crispy bacon, this hearty meal brings families together and evokes memories of cherished traditions. Whether enjoyed on a cozy winter evening or served at a festive gathering, Kumla is sure to warm both the body and the soul.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embrace the comfort of Mom’s Original Kumla Recipe. From generation to generation, let the flavors of tradition carry you to a place of warmth and joy.
Skål! Enjoy!
