Flat Dumplings
Flat dumplings are tender, chewy bites perfect for adding to broths or soups, offering a simple yet satisfying comfort food suited for quick family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour into a mixing bowl.
- Hollow out the center of the flour and work the shortening into the flour in the hollow.
- Mix together the beaten egg, salt, and milk, then pour into the hollow.
- Work in the flour from the edges until a stiff dough is formed.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface until very thin.
- Cut the dough into 1-inch strips, then stretch and pull each piece about 1 1/2 to 2 inches long.
- Drop the stretched pieces into boiling broth.
- Keep boiling until the dumplings are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. If you prefer a richer flavor, use buttermilk instead of regular milk. When mixing dough, avoid overworking to keep the dumplings tender. To enhance flavor, try adding herbs like dill or parsley to the dough for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dumplings hot in a flavorful broth, perhaps with vegetables or meat for added heartiness. They pair beautifully with hearty soups or stews, making them a great addition to a family meal. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad for a balanced dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer them in broth until warmed through, which helps maintain their softness. Avoid microwaving as it may dry them out or make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Flat Dumplings contains roughly 1350 calories, with 21g protein, 241g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (56% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1303mg per serving (57% 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 dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to cook, roll and cut as instructed.
What broth works best for boiling the dumplings?
A chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor of the dumplings significantly. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought options work well too. Ensure the broth is well-seasoned for the best results.
Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked dumplings. Lay them out on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the boiling 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).