At the foot of Julian Alps, in a warm and cosy ski lodge, with the splendid view of rugged summits, coniferous woodlands and rippling streams, there is but one thing missing to complete this delightful, contemplative experience of the natural world: the plum dumpling! Perfect as a warm, filling lunch, the plum dumpling is utterly satisfying on its own. What makes it so delectable? The browned buttered breadcrumbs! Taken out of simmering water, the dumplings are dropped and rolled in a roasted breadcrumb mixture until fully coated and dusted with icing sugar. The multipurpose ingredient serves as a binding and filling agent and becomes a flavour encasing mantle, sealing aromas and juices in dishes like herb-crusted fish fillets. Breadcrumbs can be used as a thickener for stews and sauces, and are also great for absorbing excess moisture. Sticky coconut rice balls rolled in breadcrumbs make a crunchy addition to a tangy tomato curry. Poured over puddings, used to add definition to bean burgers, or form crispy, crunchy textures in pestos and pasta dishes, breadcrumbs will soon become the favourite ingredient in the composition of your meals.