From an article entitled “Slumps, grunts, and betties” in BHG
New England’s slump is topped with biscuit dumplings, which flatten or “slump” during cooking. In Cape Cod, a slump may be known as a “grunt” — probably for the sound the fruit makes as it bubbles on the stove.
2 C sliced, pitted plums
1 C pitted sweet cherries
3/4 C sugar
3/4 C flour
1 t baking powder
1 t cinnamon
3 T butter
1/3 C milk
In a 3-quart saucepan, combine fruit, 1/2 C sugar, and 3/4 C water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat. Meanwhile, for dumplings, stir together flour, remaining sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and 1/8 t salt. Cut in butter to resemble coarse crumbs. Add milk, stirring to moisten.
Spoon dough in 6 mounds atop hot filling. Cover and simmer about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the dumplings comes out clean. Serve warm.
6 servings, 229 calories each