For those who love Scandinavian cuisine, kumla is a staple dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. These traditional Norwegian potato dumplings have been a favorite for generations, and their versatility has led to countless variations and creative twists. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious kumla recipes that showcase the best of traditional and modern cooking techniques.
From classic pairings like bacon and lingonberry jam to bold combinations like smoked salmon and caramelized onions, each recipe is a testament to the rich flavors and textures that kumla has to offer. Whether you’re looking for comforting side dishes or hearty main courses, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So, let’s get started on our culinary journey through the world of kumla!
Classic Norwegian Potato Dumplings
Classic Norwegian Potato Dumplings
These traditional potato dumplings, known as “kjøttkaker” in Norway, are a comforting and flavorful side dish or main course. Made with mashed potatoes, flour, and egg, they’re easy to make and perfect for serving with your favorite Scandinavian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cooked through
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, and salt.
2. Mix well until a dough forms, adding water as needed to achieve the right consistency.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
6. Carefully add the dumplings to the pot, cooking for 10-15 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swedish Kumla with Bacon and Cream Sauce
This classic Scandinavian dish combines tender dumplings (kumla) with crispy bacon and a rich cream sauce, making for a comforting and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation and flavorful outcome, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Swedish kumla mix (or homemade dough)
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the kumla according to package instructions or make your own dough using flour, eggs, and milk.
2. In a pan, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove from heat.
3. Add butter, garlic, and cooked bacon to the pan; sauté for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer; let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve kumla with the creamy bacon sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Traditional Kumla with Lingonberry Jam
Kumla is a classic Swedish dessert that pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart flavor of lingonberry jam. This traditional recipe is a simple yet delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup lingonberry jam
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks until smooth.
4. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to set.
7. Serve chilled with a dollop of lingonberry jam on top.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Kumla with Ham Hock
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. Slow-cooked kumla (a type of stew) is made even more flavorful by the addition of a savory ham hock.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kumla (or beef or lamb), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced ham hock
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine kumla, water, onion, garlic, and ham hock.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the kumla is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pan-Fried Kumla with Caramelized Onions
Pan-Fried Kumla with Caramelized Onions Recipe
This recipe brings together the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions and crispy pan-fried kumla, a type of Scandinavian root vegetable. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large kumla, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and caramelized.
2. In a separate pan, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Add the kumla pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
3. Season the kumla with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with the caramelized onions spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kumla Soup with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of kumla (Indian gooseberry) with a variety of root vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kumla puree
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the grated carrots, diced potatoes, and diced sweet potato. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the kumla puree and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Kumla with Brown Butter Sauce
A twist on traditional kumla, this recipe combines the richness of brown butter sauce with the warmth of herby flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 large kumla potato, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Brown Butter Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine diced kumla potato, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
4. Spread the potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
Brown Butter Sauce:
1. Melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Kumla Skillet
This Smoked Salmon and Kumala Skillet recipe is a flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the earthy sweetness of kumala (New Zealand yams). Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 large kumala, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced kumala and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the flaked smoked salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kumla Casserole with Cheese and Breadcrumbs
This Kumla Casserole is a twist on the classic casserole recipe, using tender kumlas (potato dumplings) as the base instead of pasta. The addition of melted cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs creates a satisfying and filling meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kumlas
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook kumlas according to package instructions.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked kumlas with cheese mixture and mix well.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Kumla with Apple Compote
A warm and aromatic dessert that combines the flavors of spiced kumla (a type of Indian dumpling) with a sweet and tangy apple compote.
Ingredients:
For the Spiced Kumla:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Milk, as needed
For the Apple Compote:
– 2-3 apples, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix flour, salt, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl.
3. Add melted ghee or butter, egg, and milk to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls.
5. Steam the dumplings for 15-20 minutes or bake for 12-15 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, combine apples, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a pan. Cook over medium heat until apples are tender.
7. Serve the spiced kumla with the apple compote.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Kumla and Mushroom Ragout
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of kumla (a type of Indian eggplant) with the earthiness of mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium kumlas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add kumla, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add broth and stir to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the kumla is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Kumla with Sour Cream and Chives
This recipe transforms humble kumla (a type of potato pancake) into a rich and flavorful side dish. The addition of sour cream and chives elevates the dish to new heights, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 kumla
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sour cream and softened butter until smooth.
3. Add chopped chives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange kumla on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread half of the sour cream mixture evenly over the kumla.
6. Sprinkle remaining sour cream mixture over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until kumla are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kumla Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy Kumla Pancakes topped with a drizzle of pure Canadian maple syrup. This simple recipe yields a batch of golden brown pancakes that are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kumla Dumplings in Beef Broth
Warm Up with a Bowl of Comfort: Kumla Dumplings in Beef Broth
Kumla dumplings are a traditional Nepalese comfort food, typically served in a savory broth. This recipe is a simplified version that combines the richness of beef broth with the tender goodness of homemade dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 4 cups beef broth
– Optional: chopped scallions, cilantro, or chili flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a golf ball).
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry dumplings until they float to the surface, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove dumplings from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. In a large pot, melt butter or ghee over low heat. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Add fried dumplings to the broth and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they absorb the flavors.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions, cilantro, or chili flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Sweet Kumla with Cinnamon Sugar
Sweet Kumla with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Summary: This sweet treat is a twist on traditional doughnuts, with a soft and fluffy center coated in a crunchy cinnamon sugar mixture. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm milk, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Mix until smooth batter forms.
4. Pipe or drop dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
5. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and let cool slightly.
7. While still warm, roll in cinnamon sugar mixture.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kumla Hash with Fried Eggs
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast dish that combines the rich flavors of kumla (a type of potato and onion hash) with the simplicity of a perfectly cooked fried egg.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and onions and cook until they are tender and lightly browned, about 15-20 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Crack in an egg and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. Serve the kumla hash with a fried egg on top. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Kumla hash: 15-20 minutes
– Fried eggs: 2-4 minutes per egg
Kumla and Sausage Stew
Warm up with this comforting stew, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying weeknight meal. The combination of tender kumla (Chinese turnip) and savory sausage is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 large kumla, peeled and diced
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the diced kumla, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the kumla is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Gluten-Free Kumla with Almond Flour
This gluten-free version of the traditional Indian cookie, kumla, uses almond flour to create a delicious and crispy snack. Perfect for those looking for a gluten-free alternative, these cookies are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the delicious world of kumla! This traditional Scandinavian dish has been elevated to new heights with these 18 mouth-watering recipes. From classic Norwegian potato dumplings to Swedish kumla with bacon and cream sauce, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooked kumla with ham hock or pan-fried kumla with caramelized onions for a hearty meal. For a sweet treat, enjoy kumla pancakes with maple syrup or sweet kumla with cinnamon sugar. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy!