Opal'S Cornmeal Dumplings
Opal's Cornmeal Dumplings are hearty, flavorful bites with a tender cornmeal base, perfect for hearty stews and comforting meals, appealing to those who enjoy rustic, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water, cornmeal, and salt; bring to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir a moderate amount of the hot mixture into the beaten egg.
- Return the egg mixture to the hot cornmeal mixture.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and pepper.
- Add the dry mixture to the cornmeal mixture; beat well.
- Stir in the drained corn.
- Drop batter by rounded tablespoons into boiling stew or broth.
- Cover and simmer until dumplings are done, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the dumpling mixture. If you don't have yellow cornmeal, white cornmeal or polenta can be used as substitutes. To make the dumplings lighter, separate the egg whites and beat them before folding them in. Be careful not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients to keep the dumplings fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
These cornmeal dumplings are delicious served with a hearty stew or broth, making them a great accompaniment to dishes like Dick'S Broccoli And Cheese Soup. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a side salad or roasted vegetables. They also work well as a base for a vegetarian recipe, topped with a savory sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently steam them to maintain moisture and prevent them from becoming tough. You can also add a bit of broth while reheating to enhance the flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Opal'S Cornmeal Dumplings contains roughly 541 calories, with 12g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 910mg per serving (40% 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 these dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to cook them fresh just before serving.
What can I serve with cornmeal dumplings?
Cornmeal dumplings pair wonderfully with soups and stews. They complement dishes like Chicken and Vegetable Soup or even a simple broth. For a lighter meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad.
Can I freeze cornmeal dumplings?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze cooked dumplings for up to a month. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm them in a steamer or broth to maintain their texture.
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).