🛒 Ingredients:
For the dumplings:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (smooth, no lumps – best if cold!)
- 1–1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg 🥚
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional: a pinch of white pepper or nutmeg for savory version
For the breadcrumb topping:
- 3–4 tbsp butter
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- Optional for sweet version: 2–3 tbsp sugar and a pinch of cinnamon
👩🍳 How to Make Shlishkes:
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, salt, and enough flour to form a soft, pliable dough. It shouldn’t be sticky, but it also shouldn’t be too stiff — just enough to roll into logs.
2. Roll & Cut
Dust your work surface with flour. Roll the dough into long ropes, about ½ inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces — these are your dumplings! They should look like little pillows of joy. 😊
3. Cook the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop in the dumplings and cook until they float to the top, about 3–5 minutes. Once floating, let them cook another minute before draining.
4. Toast the Breadcrumbs
In a large skillet, melt the butter and add the breadcrumbs. Toast over medium heat until golden and fragrant. If making the sweet version, add sugar and cinnamon at the end and stir to combine.
5. Toss and Serve
Gently toss the drained dumplings in the buttery breadcrumbs until fully coated. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy magic! 🧈🍽️
🍽️ Variations You’ll Love:
- Sweet Shlishkes: Add sugar and cinnamon to the toasted breadcrumbs. Perfect with powdered sugar or fruit compote.
- Savory Shlishkes: Use garlic or onion powder in the dough, or serve as a side with stews or paprikash.
- Nutty Version: Add crushed walnuts or poppy seeds to the breadcrumbs for a traditional twist! 🌰
💬 Ashley’s Serving Idea:
“I love serving sweet Shlishkes as a surprise dessert after a savory dinner. The soft texture and warm cinnamon sugar coating always bring smiles!”
🥹 A Taste That Brings You Home
Shlishkes is more than a dish — it’s a memory in the making. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug from your grandmother… even if you’re far from home.
If you’re craving a taste of Hungary, this is it. Simple, soulful, and timeless.
Would you like a printable version of this recipe, or maybe a video tutorial, Ashley? Just say the word! And if you want to try it with a filling or serve it with a soup or sauce — I’ve got ideas! Let’s keep the Hungarian flavors rolling 🇭🇺🥰