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Southern Dumplings

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Southern dumplings are soft, pillowy dough balls simmered in savory broth for a comforting, down-home classic. Perfect in stews or with gravy, they bring warmth and tradition to any meal.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter or shortening
  • 3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 4 cups chicken broth or stew (for cooking the dumplings)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cut in butter or shortening using a fork or pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually stir in milk until a soft, sticky dough forms—do not overmix.
  4. Let the dough rest for 5–10 minutes.
  5. Bring chicken broth or stew to a gentle simmer in a large pot.
  6. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering liquid, spacing them apart.
  7. Cover the pot and simmer for 12–15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Once dumplings are puffed and cooked through, gently stir and serve hot with broth or stew.

Notes

  • Add chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
  • Use buttermilk for a denser, biscuit-like dumpling.
  • Serve with shredded chicken in thickened broth for classic chicken and dumplings.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with added broth to loosen.
  • Avoid freezing as dumpling texture may change.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/southern-dumplings/