Southern Style Dumplings
Southern Style Dumplings feature tender dough cooked in flavorful broth with deboned chicken, offering comforting, savory taste perfect for hearty family meals.
Ingredients
- 4 to 5 lb stewing hen
- large bowl of sifted flour
- salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Make a well in the center of the sifted flour in a large bowl.
- Add salt and pepper to the flour.
- Pour boiling broth from the cooked hen into the flour, stirring constantly with a fork until you have enough to form the dumplings.
- Turn the mixture out onto a floured board or paper sack and roll out very thin.
- Cut the dough into desired sizes.
- Drop the cut dumplings into boiling broth a few at a time.
- Cook until the dumplings are done.
- Add deboned cooked chicken to the dish before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful broth, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves while boiling the hen. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. If you prefer a thicker dumpling, add a small amount of baking powder to the flour mixture. Ensure the broth is boiling before adding dumplings to achieve the right texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dumplings in a bowl with a generous ladle of broth and deboned chicken pieces on top. Pair with a side of Stir-Fried Bean Sprouts for a refreshing crunch. For added flavor, drizzle with Grandma Midgie's Teriyaki Marinade before serving for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the dumplings and broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the broth to prevent it from becoming too thick and heat gently on the stove until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dumplings rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of flour for the dumplings?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour such as whole wheat or spelt for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that this may affect the consistency of the dough, so adjust the liquid accordingly.
How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are done when they rise to the surface of the boiling broth and have a soft texture. This typically takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on their thickness. Test one by cutting it in half to ensure it’s cooked through.
Can I freeze leftover dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze leftover dumplings, but it's best to freeze them separately from the broth to maintain their texture. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be reheated directly from frozen.
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).