Best Ever Dumplings
Light and fluffy dumplings with a tender texture, perfect for hearty soups and stews. Great for cozy family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, salt, and baking powder together in a bowl.
- Work in shortening with a knife or fingertips until crumbly.
- Add milk gradually to make a soft dough.
- Drop a tablespoon of dough at a time onto boiling soup or stew during the last 15 to 20 minutes of cooking.
- Ensure the kettle is covered tightly during cooking; do not remove the cover.
- Cook until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For lighter dumplings, make sure not to overwork the dough once you add the milk. If you don't have shortening, oil can be substituted, but use a light oil like vegetable or canola for the best texture. If you're short on milk, water or a non-dairy milk alternative would work in a pinch. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a fluffy result.
Serving Suggestions
These dumplings are perfect served in a hearty chicken or vegetable soup, adding comforting texture and flavor. They pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables like Baked Potato Slims(Vegetables). For a unique twist, consider adding herbs or cheese to the dough for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, microwave them briefly with a splash of water to maintain moisture, or steam them for a few minutes. Avoid reheating in the oven as it may dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Dumplings contains roughly 40 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2239mg per serving (97% 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 make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours. However, it's best to drop them into boiling soup just before serving to ensure they remain fluffy and light.
What type of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe as it provides the right balance of protein and tenderness. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend, though the texture may vary slightly.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dumpling dough?
Absolutely! Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor of your dumplings. Spices like garlic powder or onion powder can also add a tasty twist, making them even more delicious in your favorite soup.
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).