Lazy Dumplings with Brown Butter and Honey Berry Compote

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb soft and creamy farmer’s cheese or fromage blanc

• 1 egg

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for shaping.

• 1 stick butter

• 1 ½ cups mixed berries 

• ¼ cup honey

• sour cream for serving, optional

Instructions:

For the dough, combine soft and creamy farmer’s cheese, an egg, salt, vanilla extract, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Mix until smooth and well combined. Gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing until you form a very soft dough that is slightly sticky but manageable.

Lightly flour your work surface and divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll each portion into a long, thin sausage shape, about a finger's width. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into small dumplings.

Bring a large pot of water to a gentle simmer and add a pinch of salt and a bit of sugar. Carefully drop the dumplings into the simmering water. Cook for a few minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings and drain them briefly.

To make the brown butter, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Once browned, remove the butter from the heat immediately to prevent burning.

For the berry compote, combine mixed berries and honey in a medium saucepan. Simmer over low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries are juicy and slightly softened.

To serve, toss the cooked dumplings with plenty of the melted brown butter. Serve warm, topped with the honey berry compote, and optionally, add a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra richness.