Cindy'S Dumplings
Cindy's Dumplings are fluffy, savory dough balls perfect for dropping into hearty stews, adding comforting texture and flavor to your favorite meat or vegetable dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl.
- Cut in shortening thoroughly until mixture looks like meal.
- Stir in milk.
- Drop dough by spoonfuls onto hot meat or vegetables in boiling stew, being careful not to drop directly into liquid.
- Cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Cover and cook about 10 minutes longer or until dumplings are fluffy.
Tips & Substitutions
For light and fluffy dumplings, ensure you do not overmix the dough once the milk is added. If you need a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. If you find the dough too dry, add a bit more milk, one tablespoon at a time. For added flavor, try mixing in herbs or spices like garlic powder or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these dumplings over a hearty stew or alongside a rich soup for a comforting meal. They pair particularly well with savory dishes like beef stew or chicken and vegetable soup. Consider serving with a side of Sara'S Cornbread for a complete comfort food experience that's sure to satisfy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water and microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying them out. Alternatively, you can steam them lightly on the stovetop.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cindy'S Dumplings contains roughly 44 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1129mg per serving (49% 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 dumpling dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before dropping it into the boiling stew to ensure even cooking.
What kind of stew works best with these dumplings?
These dumplings are versatile and can complement a variety of stews. A classic chicken and vegetable stew or a robust beef stew are great options. The dumplings will soak up the flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall dish.
Can I freeze the dumplings?
It's best to freeze the dumpling dough rather than cooked dumplings. To freeze, shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen in your stew, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).