Grandma Barb'S Dumplings
Grandma Barb's Dumplings are fluffy, savory treats perfect for adding a comforting touch to soups and stews. Their simple ingredients make them ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Add 1/2 cup milk and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Blend in melted shortening.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the dough onto boiling soup.
- Cover tightly and steam without lifting the cover for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For lighter dumplings, use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you don't have shortening, butter or vegetable oil can be substituted. Ensure to keep the soup boiling when adding the dumplings, and avoid lifting the cover while they steam to retain moisture. For a twist, try adding herbs or spices to the dough for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These dumplings are perfect served atop a hearty chicken or vegetable soup for a comforting meal. Pair them with a fresh Broccoli And Pea Salad for a balanced side. They also go well with a light fruit dessert like Orange Blossom Cooler to cleanse the palate after the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a steamer over simmering water for about 5 minutes, or gently warm them in the microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Barb'S Dumplings contains roughly 38 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2223mg 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 use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. You might want to add an extra tablespoon of milk to keep the dumplings moist. Experimenting with a half-and-half mix of all-purpose and whole wheat can yield great results too.
What type of soup works best with these dumplings?
These dumplings are versatile and pair well with a variety of soups. Classic chicken soup or a rich vegetable broth works wonderfully, allowing the dumplings to soak up the flavors. For a unique twist, try them in a spicy chili for added texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
While it's best to use the dough fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the dumplings may not rise as well when cooked if the dough is too cold, so let it come to room temperature before using.
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).