Kohlrabi Dumplings with Sunflower Seed Pesto and Apple Consommé Delight
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Valdemar
When the summer harvest fills our local farmers’ market with a riot of colors, I can t resist exploring the unique offerings like kohlrabi. I recently stumbled upon this versatile vegetable, and my kitchen adventures took an exciting twist. Little did I know, kohlrabi could transform into delicate dumplings that marry beautifully with a rich sunflower seed pesto and a crisp apple consomm .
Imagine biting into a tender dumpling that bursts with the fresh, earthy sweetness of kohlrabi, contrasted perfectly by the nutty creaminess of the pesto and a refreshing splash of tart apple. It s the kind of dish that not only looks elegant on your table but also delivers delightful flavors with every bite.
This recipe not only celebrates seasonal produce but is also a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a home-cooked meal that feels special. Let s dive into creating this extraordinary dish that redefines vegetarian cooking!
Why are kohlrabi dumplings so special?
Unique Twist: These kohlrabi dumplings bring a refreshing take on traditional dumplings, using seasonal produce to elevate your meals.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of nutty sunflower seed pesto and bright apple consomm creates a stunning balance of flavors that will excite your taste buds.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this elegant dish.
Visual Appeal: A feast for the eyes, your guests will be impressed by the vibrant colors and textures on the plate.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the dumplings with different veggies or serve with a side salad for added nutrition.
Healthful Indulgence: Packed with fiber and vitamins, you can indulge without any guilt while enjoying a delicious meal.
Kohlrabi Dumplings Ingredients
Discover the magic behind kohlrabi dumplings!
For the Dumplings
- Kohlrabi A key ingredient for dumplings, offering a unique texture and flavor; use only 7cm slices to create the perfect shape.
- Spinach Leaves Adds vibrant color and essential nutrients to your dumplings, making them visually appealing.
- Dijon Mustard This adds a delightful sharpness to the dumpling mixture; feel free to swap it with whole grain mustard for a different kick.
For the Sunflower Seed Pesto
- Sunflower Seeds Providing a lovely crunch and nutty flavor for the pesto; substitute with pine nuts or walnuts if you prefer.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Vital for the pesto’s luscious consistency; always choose high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
- Lemon Zest & Juice Freshly zested lemon brightens the pesto, enhancing the overall flavor profile wonderfully.
For the Apple Consomm
- Apples (Green) The star of the consomm , contributing a refreshing tartness; other tart varieties can work just as well.
- Rice Wine Vinegar This ingredient balances the sweetness of the apples in your consomm ; apple cider vinegar can be a suitable alternative.
- Caster Sugar Used to mellow the acidity in the apple consomm , light brown sugar can be easily substituted.
- Ascorbic Acid (or Vitamin C Powder) Aids in keeping the color and brightness of your consomm , essential for presentation.
Garnish
- Fresh Nasturtium Leaves Perfect for adding a pop of color and a peppery herbal note; they elevate your plate!
With these fresh ingredients, your kohlrabi dumplings with sunflower seed pesto and apple consomm will truly shine!
How to Make Kohlrabi Dumplings with Sunflower Seed Pesto
Prepare the Kohlrabi: Start by peeling the kohlrabi and slicing it into 7cm pieces. Set aside the leftover kohlrabi to julienne for pickling later.
Make the Dumpling Mixture: In a food processor, combine the kohlrabi pieces with fresh spinach, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth; give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Form Dumplings: Using your hands, shape the kohlrabi mixture into bite-sized dumplings, ensuring they are well-formed and compact.
Cook Dumplings: Bring a pot of water to a boil or set up your steamer. Cook the dumplings for about 10 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.
Prepare Pesto: In a blender, toss in the sunflower seeds, extra-virgin olive oil, and lemon juice/zest. Blend until the mixture is smooth, adjusting the consistency and seasoning as you go.
Create Apple Consomm : In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, caster sugar, and rice wine vinegar. Simmer gently until the apples are soft, then strain the mixture to achieve a clear liquid.
Serve: Plate the delicious dumplings, drizzling them with the sunflower seed pesto and a splash of the fresh apple consomm . For an inviting touch, garnish with fresh nasturtium leaves.
Optional: Drizzle with more olive oil for an extra touch of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These kohlrabi dumplings with sunflower seed pesto and apple consomm are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic weeknights! You can prepare the kohlrabi mixture and form the dumplings up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them, ensuring they are covered to maintain moisture. The sunflower seed pesto can be made ahead as well store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to serve, just boil or steam the dumplings for about 10 minutes until tender, drizzle with the pesto, and enjoy a delightful meal without the last-minute rush. Embrace the convenience while still delivering a restaurant-quality dish at home!
Kohlrabi Dumplings Variations
Feel free to get creative with your kohlrabi dumplings and make them uniquely yours!
Nut-Free Option: Swap sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds to maintain a crunchy texture without nuts. This will still deliver a delightful pesto taste.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to the dumpling mixture for an aromatic flavor boost that elevates your dish beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the pesto. It adds a nice warmth that harmonizes with the tangy apple consomm .
Cheesy Delight: Fold in grated parmesan or nutritional yeast into the dumpling mixture for a savory layer of flavor that’s irresistible.
Add a Sweet Twist: Mix in roasted sweet potato with kohlrabi for a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that adds depth to the dumplings.
Texture Variance: For a bite, use half kohlrabi and half cooked quinoa in the mixture. This creates a hearty texture while keeping it light.
Different Roots: Experiment with parsnips or turnips instead of kohlrabi for a different flavor profile that still retains the dumpling essence.
Tart Flavor: Swap the green apples with tart cherries in the consomm for a unique fruity twist that brightens the dish with unexpected happiness.
Expert Tips for Kohlrabi Dumplings
- Choose Fresh Kohlrabi: Ensure your kohlrabi is firm and vibrant; this will enhance the texture and flavor of your dumplings.
- Don’t Overblend: While making the dumpling mixture, blend just until smooth. Overblending may lead to gummy dumplings.
- Careful with Cooking: Boil or steam the dumplings until cooked through, about 10 minutes; avoid overcooking to preserve their delicate texture.
- Adjust Pesto Consistency: If the sunflower seed pesto is too thick, gradually add more olive oil to achieve your preferred creaminess.
- Strain Consomm Well: For a clear apple consomm , ensure you strain thoroughly. Using a double layer of dampened Chux can help if muslin is unavailable.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your kohlrabi dumplings with sunflower seed pesto and apple consomm right after cooking to maintain their texture.
How to Store and Freeze Kohlrabi Dumplings
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid storing kohlrabi dumplings at room temperature to maintain their freshness and texture.
Fridge: Leftover kohlrabi dumplings can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in the fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, steam or boil the frozen dumplings straight from the freezer for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they keep their delightful texture.
What to Serve with Kohlrabi Dumplings with Sunflower Seed Pesto and Apple Consomm ?
Imagine a delightful spread that complements the unique flavors of your dumplings, elevating your dining experience to new heights.
Saut ed Seasonal Greens: Tender greens like Swiss chard or kale add vibrancy and earthiness, harmonizing beautifully with the dumplings’ flavors. The slight bitterness of the greens offsets the rich pesto, creating a well-rounded plate.
Light Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette and crunchy vegetables enhances the meal’s texture while keeping it light and nutritious. This offers a lovely contrast to the tender dumplings.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips pair splendidly, adding depth to your plate. Their natural sweetness complements the tart apple consomm flawlessly.
Crisp Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad with a hint of vinegar and herbs brings a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish. It’s a great palate cleanser!
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s lightness and earthy notes while enhancing the dining experience.
These pairing ideas will not only elevate your meal but also create a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures, making for an unforgettable dining experience!
Kohlrabi Dumplings with Sunflower Seed Pesto and Apple Consomm Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my kohlrabi is ripe?
Look for kohlrabi that is firm and has no dark spots or blemishes. A fresh kohlrabi should feel heavy for its size, about the size of a baseball, with vibrant green leaves. If it shows signs of soft spots, it s better to skip it.
What s the best way to store leftover dumplings?
Refrigerate leftover kohlrabi dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in the fridge to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze kohlrabi dumplings? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze kohlrabi dumplings, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Steam or boil them straight from the freezer for about 10-12 minutes to reheat.
What should I do if my dumpling mixture is too sticky?
If your dumpling mixture feels too sticky to form, try adding a bit more kohlrabi or a sprinkle of flour to help bind it better. You can also wet your hands lightly while shaping the dumplings.
Is this recipe safe for those with nut allergies?
If you have a nut allergy, I recommend substituting the sunflower seeds with pumpkin seeds or hemp seeds for the pesto. Both alternatives maintain that lovely crunch and flavor while being nut-free.
What are some good serving suggestions?
The kohlrabi dumplings are best served immediately after cooking for the freshest taste and texture. Pair them with a crisp white wine and a side salad of greens for a beautiful, balanced meal that celebrates seasonal produce.