Maple Syrup Dumplings (Grands-pères)
"Grands-pères," or "Grands-pères au sirop d'érable" (Maple Syrup Dumplings), are a traditional Québécois dessert often served at sugar shack meals. They consist of small dough balls cooked in maple syrup, giving them a soft texture and a characteristic sweet taste.
The exact origin of the name and the recipe is uncertain, but there are several theories about it:
Acadian origin: The recipe is said to be of Acadian origin, and the name would come from the translation of the English "grandfather's dumplings." The "dumplings" were prepared by the grandfathers because they were too old to take care of more physical tasks such as cutting wood for the fire.
Ease of consumption: Another theory suggests that the name would come from the fact that grandfathers, often toothless, could easily eat this soft dessert. The wrinkled texture of the dough would also be reminiscent of their features.
Subsistence cuisine: It is possible that this dish was born as an ingenious way to use leftover dough and take advantage of the abundance of maple syrup.
Whatever their origin, "Grands-pères" have become a symbol of Québécois cuisine and a must-have at sugar shacks. They are appreciated for their simplicity, their comforting taste, and their ability to satisfy sugar cravings after a hearty meal.
Recette en français
Ingredients:
Instructions :
Boil the syrup and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
In a bowl, combine the dry ingredients.
Cut the butter into small pieces in the flour using a pastry blender or your hands.
Add the milk and mix until a homogeneous dough is obtained, but do not overmix.
Drop the dough by spoonfuls into the syrup in groups so as not to put too much and cool the syrup.
Lower the heat and cover.
Cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
To check for doneness, remove a "Grand-père" and cut in half. If cooked, remove and place on a serving plate, sprinkle with icing sugar and serve.
Enjoy your sugar shack!
"Grands-pères au sirop d'érable" are delicious as they are, but there are many ways to enhance them for an even more gourmet experience. Here are some ideas:
Classic and must-haves
Vanilla ice cream: This is the traditional accompaniment par excellence. The sweetness of vanilla blends wonderfully with the rich, sweet taste of maple syrup and the soft texture of the "Grands-pères."
Fresh cream: A quenelle of lightly whipped fresh cream brings a touch of freshness and creaminess that balances the sweet side of the dessert.
More creative and gourmet
Chocolate sauce: A drizzle of dark or milk chocolate sauce adds a chocolatey dimension that blends surprisingly well with maple.
Crushed nuts: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or toasted slivered almonds add crunch and extra flavor.
Fresh fruit: Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries cut into pieces add a touch of freshness and acidity that pleasantly contrasts with the sugar.
Salted caramel: A pinch of fleur de sel on a salted butter caramel sauce intensifies the flavors and creates an irresistible sweet and salty contrast.
Spices: A pinch of ground cinnamon or grated nutmeg on the "Grands-pères" or in the maple syrup adds a warm and fragrant touch.
Presentation
You can serve the "Grands-pères" in individual bowls or in a large family dish.
Generously coat them with hot maple syrup and add the toppings of your choice.
For a more festive presentation, you can decorate the plates with sugar maple leaves or chocolate shavings.
Feel free to let your imagination run wild and experiment with different combinations of flavors and textures. The important thing is to create a dessert that you like and that will delight your family and friends!
