Canederli, also known as bread dumplings, are a quintessential dish of Trentino cuisine, nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps. These delicious dumplings are made from stale bread and are often served in broth or as a side dish with hearty meats. They embody the rustic charm of the region and are a celebration of simplicity and resourcefulness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, making canederli is a rewarding experience. Follow this plain and simple guide to bring a taste of Trentino to your home.
Ingredients:
For about 4 servings, you will need:
300g stale bread (preferably traditional bread like ciabatta or wholegrain)
200ml milk
2 large eggs
100g speck (or pancetta), diced
100g grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Flour, as needed (about 100g)
StepbyStep Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the stale bread into small cubes and place them in a large bowl.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Warm the milk slightly then pour it over the bread cubes. Let the bread soak for about 30 minutes. This step ensures the bread becomes soft and pliable.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Speck
In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
Add the diced speck (or pancetta) and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the meat becomes crispy. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In the bowl with the soaked bread, add the sautéed onion and speck mixture, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, eggs, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Mix everything thoroughly until well combined to form a dough. If the mixture feels too wet, gradually add flour until a firmer consistency is reached.
Step 5: Shape the Dumplings
With your hands, take portions of the dough (about the size of a golf ball) and shape them into round dumplings. Ensure they’re compact so they hold their shape during cooking.
Step 6: Cook the Canederli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the pot.
Cook them for about 1012 minutes until they float to the surface. This indicates they’re ready.
Step 7: Serve the Canederli
Using a slotted spoon, remove the canederli from the pot and let them drain for a moment.
Serve them in a warm broth, or with melted butter and additional grated Parmesan on top for a richer experience.
Step 8: Enjoy
Gather around the table with friends and family to enjoy your homemade canederli, savoring every bite of this Alpine delight.
Conclusion
Canederli is not just a dish but a way to experience the rich culinary traditions of Trentino. By following these simple steps, you can bring a hearty piece of Italian alpine culture to your dining table. Enjoy the process of creating, serving, and sharing these comforting dumplings. Buon appetito!