Southern Corn Meal Dumplings
Southern Corn Meal Dumplings are hearty, tender, and flavorful, perfect for adding a comforting touch to chicken broth or stews, appealing to those craving Southern-style comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour and cornmeal in a bowl.
- Work in Crisco like pie dough until crumbly.
- Add beaten eggs to sweet milk, then pour into the flour mixture.
- Mix to form a dough, adding more milk if necessary to handle.
- Roll out the dough and cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Drop the dumplings into boiling chicken broth.
- When all the dough is added, cover the pot and turn off the heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the Crisco with unsalted butter. You can also use buttermilk instead of sweet milk for a tangy flavor. If you're short on time, pre-made dumpling mixes can work in a pinch, though homemade offers superior taste. Add herbs like parsley or thyme to the dough for extra flavor that complements dishes like Oriental Chicken Spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these dumplings in a rich chicken broth, garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a side of sautéed greens or a crisp salad. For a comforting meal, serve alongside a hearty stew or with dishes like Fat-Free Fancy Fried Rice for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer them in chicken broth or water until warmed through, which helps maintain their texture. Avoid microwaving directly, as this can make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Corn Meal Dumplings contains roughly 455 calories, with 8g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2262mg per serving (98% 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 freeze the dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked dumplings. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to use, cook them straight from the freezer in boiling broth, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of Crisco?
If you're looking for a substitute for Crisco, you can use lard or unsalted butter. Both options will provide a different flavor and texture, but they will still yield delicious dumplings. Remember that butter will create a richer taste.
How do I know when the dumplings are done?
The dumplings are done when they float to the surface of the broth, usually within 10-15 minutes. Ensure they are cooked through by cutting one open; it should be tender and no longer doughy inside.
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).