Blood Dumplings(Blod Kompen)
Blood Dumplings are hearty Norwegian dishes combining tender potatoes with rich blood, seasoned with salt, pepper, and filled with ham or beef pieces, perfect for traditional or festive meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Once you have learned to boil and steam potatoes the Norwegian way, quickly bring thinly peeled potatoes to a boil and cook until easily pierced by a knife or fork.
- Do not overcook or they will become soggy and fall apart easily.
- Drain immediately.
- Return potatoes to a low heat; shake pan gently to prevent sticking and continue steaming until the pan is completely dry.
- Remove from heat and cover the pan with a cloth, not the lid, until ready to serve.
- You can also add butter or margarine if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your grated potatoes are not overcooked before steaming. If you don't have blood, you can substitute with a rich beef broth for a different flavor profile. Adding extra spices like nutmeg or allspice can enhance the taste. If the dough feels too sticky, incorporate more flour gradually until you achieve the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Blood Dumplings warm, drizzled with melted butter or a sweet sauce to balance the savory flavors. They pair excellently with sauerkraut or pickled vegetables for a traditional touch. For a comforting meal, consider serving alongside a hearty soup, like those found in pork recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam the dumplings lightly or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid direct boiling, as this can make them mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blood Dumplings(Blod Kompen) contains roughly 1866 calories, with 39g protein, 230g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (178% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and protein (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham or beef?
Yes, you can use poultry or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter version. Just ensure the meat is finely chopped or ground to blend well with the dumpling mixture.
Is it necessary to add raisins?
Raisins are optional, but they add a nice sweetness that contrasts well with the savory elements. If you prefer a savory-only dish, feel free to omit them or substitute with chopped dried fruits like apricots.
Can I freeze the dumplings?
Absolutely! Freeze them uncooked by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the steaming time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).