Acadian Stuffed Potato Dumplings
Discover a delightful taste of New Brunswick with these Acadian Stuffed Potato Dumplings, known as Poutines Rapees. This traditional recipe unites the earthy flavor of raw grated potatoes with the creamy texture of cooked mashed potatoes. Each dumpling is carefully formed around a savory filling of seasoned salty pork, creating a hearty dish that warms the soul. Once shaped, these dumplings are gently simmered in salted water to achieve a soft, pillowy texture. Enjoy them served hot with a drizzle of melted butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect as a main course or even as a unique dessert when paired with sweet molasses or sugar, these dumplings are a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of Canada.
N/A
Servings
533
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fatty salt pork
1 lb (Soaked overnight, cut into small cubes.)
Raw potatoes
10 (Peeled and grated.)
Cooked potatoes
4 (Mashed and seasoned with salt and pepper.)
White flour
For dusting (Use as needed.)
Salt
To taste (Used in water and for seasoning.)
Pepper
To taste (Used for seasoning.)
Butter or molasses
For serving (Optional toppings.)
Instructions
1
Begin by soaking the fatty salt pork in cold water overnight to remove excess salt, changing the water once if necessary.
2
After soaking, drain the pork and cut it into small cubes.
3
Next, peel the uncooked potatoes and grate them finely. Place the grated potatoes in a clean cloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes with the cooked and mashed potatoes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
5
Take a generous handful of the potato mixture and form it into a ball. Create a small indentation in the center with your thumb.
6
Fill the indentation with a tablespoon of the prepared salted pork cubes, then close the hole in the dumpling and roll it gently to ensure the filling is sealed inside.
7
Dust each dumpling lightly with white flour to prevent sticking.
8
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully lower the dumplings into the boiling water, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
9
Allow the water to return to a lively boil, then reduce the heat slightly and let the dumplings simmer for 2 to 3 hours until they are tender and cooked through.
10
Once cooked, remove the dumplings from the pot and serve hot with a dollop of butter, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or as a sweet treat drizzled with molasses or sprinkled sugar. Some also enjoy them with a side of mustard for a savory twist.
Nutrition Information
37g
Fat
43g
Carbs
12g
Protein
7g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Acadian Stuffed Potato Dumplings?
Acadian Stuffed Potato Dumplings, also known as Poutines Rapees, are a traditional Canadian dish made from a blend of raw and cooked potatoes stuffed with seasoned salt pork.
What is the traditional name for this recipe?
This traditional recipe is commonly known as Poutines Rapees in Acadian culture.
What region of Canada does this dish come from?
These dumplings are a celebrated culinary staple of New Brunswick, Canada.
What are the primary ingredients for the dumpling dough?
The dough is made from a combination of finely grated raw potatoes and mashed cooked potatoes.
How do you prepare the salt pork filling?
The fatty salt pork should be soaked in cold water overnight to remove excess salt, then drained and cut into small cubes.
Why is it necessary to soak the salt pork?
Soaking the pork overnight helps to draw out the intense salt used for preservation, ensuring the final dish is perfectly seasoned.
How should the raw potatoes be processed?
The raw potatoes should be peeled, finely grated, and then squeezed in a clean cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
Why must the liquid be squeezed out of the grated potatoes?
Removing the excess liquid ensures the potato mixture has the right consistency to be formed into balls that won't fall apart during boiling.
How many potatoes are needed for this recipe?
This recipe calls for 10 raw potatoes and 4 cooked potatoes.
How do you form the dumplings?
Take a handful of the potato mixture, form a ball, create an indentation for the meat, add the pork, and seal the hole by rolling it gently.
How much pork goes into each dumpling?
Each dumpling is typically filled with about one tablespoon of prepared salt pork cubes.
What is the purpose of the white flour in this recipe?
The dumplings are lightly dusted with white flour before boiling to prevent them from sticking to each other or the pot.
How long do the dumplings need to cook?
The dumplings should be simmered in boiling water for approximately 2 to 3 hours until they are tender.
What is the best way to boil the dumplings?
Lower them into a rolling boil of salted water, then reduce the heat to a simmer, ensuring the pot is not overcrowded.
What should the texture of the cooked dumplings be?
Once cooked, the dumplings should have a soft, pillowy, and hearty texture.
How are Poutines Rapees served as a savory meal?
They are traditionally served hot with a dollop of butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Can these dumplings be eaten as a dessert?
Yes, they can be served as a sweet treat by drizzling them with molasses or sprinkling them with sugar.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
One serving contains approximately 533 calories, 37g of fat, 43g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein.
Is there fiber in this potato dish?
Yes, there are approximately 7 grams of fiber per serving.
Can I add mustard to the dumplings?
Yes, some people enjoy a savory twist by serving their dumplings with a side of mustard.
How do I prevent the dumplings from falling apart?
Ensuring the raw potatoes are squeezed dry and the dumplings are rolled firmly around the filling helps maintain their shape.
Is this recipe suitable for a large family?
Given the ingredient quantities and the hearty nature of the dish, it is an excellent choice for a traditional family meal.
What kind of pot is best for cooking these?
A large pot is recommended to allow the dumplings enough space to simmer without overcrowding.
How do I season the potato dough?
The mashed cooked potatoes should be seasoned with salt and pepper to taste before being combined with the grated potatoes.
What type of pork is best for the filling?
Fatty salt pork is the traditional choice for providing a rich, savory flavor to the center of the dumpling.
Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?
While the cooked potatoes can be mashed ahead of time, raw potatoes should be grated and used quickly to prevent browning.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Absolutely, it is widely recognized as a classic Canadian comfort food that warms the soul.
What should I do if the water level drops while simmering?
Since they simmer for up to 3 hours, you may need to add more boiling water to the pot to keep the dumplings submerged.
Are there any other names for salt pork?
In some regions, it may be referred to as fatback or salt-cured pork.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
The dish features earthy potato flavors combined with a salty, rich meat filling and a customizable sweet or savory finish.