Southern Dumplings
Southern Dumplings are light, fluffy dough pieces cooked in flavorful chicken or beef broth, perfect for comforting family meals and hearty soups.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add butter and mix well until crumbly.
- Gradually add milk and mix until a stiff dough forms.
- Roll the dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into small biscuits or strips with a cutter.
- Drop the dough pieces into boiling chicken or beef broth and cook until fluffy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the dough. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond milk or a plant-based butter. Ensure your broth is well-seasoned, as this will enhance the dumplings' taste. If you prefer a lighter texture, don't overwork the dough when mixing in the milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dumplings in a bowl of savory chicken or beef broth, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. They pair wonderfully with sides like Black-Eyed Peas And Rice for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, offer a salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the broth on the stove to keep them moist. If freezing, lay them flat on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Dumplings contains roughly 45 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2245mg 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 make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Roll and cut the dumplings, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What type of broth should I use?
You can use homemade or store-bought chicken or beef broth, depending on your preference. For a vegetarian option, a rich vegetable broth works wonderfully too. Just ensure it's well-seasoned for the best flavor.
How do I know when the dumplings are done cooking?
The dumplings are done when they float to the surface of the broth and have puffed up, indicating they're cooked through. This usually takes about 10 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
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).