Zelma'S Never Fail Dumplings
Zelma's Never Fail Dumplings are soft, tender, and flavorful, featuring a delicate dough infused with a hint of Accent seasoning and rich cream. Perfect as a comforting addition to broths or soups, these dumplings are quick to prepare and appealing to family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs and shortening together.
- Add dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, and Accent seasoning.
- Gradually add enough milk to form a stiff dough.
- Knead dough on a floured surface until smooth.
- Roll out the dough very thin and cut into strips.
- Drop the strips into boiling broth.
- Cook until the dumplings are almost done.
- Add a few drops of yellow food coloring and 1 cup of cream to the broth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more tender dumpling, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you're out of Accent seasoning, a pinch of MSG or additional salt can work as a substitute. To add flavor, try incorporating herbs like parsley or thyme into the dough. Make sure your broth is boiling before adding the dumplings to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these dumplings in a rich broth as a comforting main dish. They pair beautifully with a side of Momma'S String Bean Dish for a wholesome meal. You can also top them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. Consider serving a light salad on the side to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the broth or steam them to prevent drying out. Alternatively, for a quick option, microwave them in short intervals while adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zelma'S Never Fail Dumplings contains roughly 138 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2230mg 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 freeze the dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked dumplings. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, add them directly to boiling broth without thawing. Cook time may need to be adjusted slightly.
What can I use instead of cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the cream. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or almond cream can work well, though they will slightly alter the flavor of the broth.
How do I know when the dumplings are done cooking?
Dumplings are typically done when they float to the top of the broth and have a fluffy appearance. You can also cut one open to check that it is cooked through and no longer doughy in the center.
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).