How to Make Southern Dumplings

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How to Make Southern Dumplings

Description

Southern dumplings are tender, pillowy bites of dough gently simmered in broth or stew. They’re simple, comforting, and a staple in Southern kitchens—often served with chicken and gravy. This recipe uses just 3 ingredients and produces light, satisfying dumplings.

 Ingredients

For the Dumplings

  • 2 cups self-rising flour

  • ¼ cup shortening or lard

  • ¾ cup boiling water

For Cooking (Optional but Traditional)

  • 4–6 cups chicken broth or stock

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Optional: cooked shredded chicken

 Instructions

1. Make the Dough

  • Place flour in a mixing bowl.

  • Cut in the shortening or lard using a fork or fingers until crumbly.

  • Slowly pour in the boiling water, stirring until a soft dough forms.

2. Shape the Dumplings

  • Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface.

  • Pat or roll to about ¼-inch thickness.

  • Cut into small squares or strips.

3. Cook the Dumplings

  • Bring broth to a gentle boil in a large pot.

  • Drop dumplings in one at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking.

  • Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until tender and fluffy.

4. Serve

  • Season with salt and pepper.

  • Add cooked chicken if desired and serve hot.

 Notes

  • Do not overwork the dough—gentle mixing keeps dumplings tender.

  • Dumplings will thicken the broth naturally as they cook.

  • Keep the simmer gentle, not rapid.

Tips for Best Southern Dumplings

  • Self-rising flour already contains salt and leavening—no extra needed.

  • Lard gives the most traditional flavor, but shortening works well.

  • If broth thickens too much, add a splash of warm water or stock.

Servings

  • Serves: 4–6

  • Yield: About 20–24 dumplings

 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~220

  • Carbohydrates: ~28 g

  • Fat: ~10 g

  • Protein: ~4 g

(Varies based on broth and additions)

 Benefits

  • Budget-friendly comfort food

  • Minimal ingredients

  • Filling and satisfying

  • Perfect base for chicken and gravy

 Q & A

Q: Can I use butter instead of shortening?
A: Yes, but dumplings may be slightly less fluffy.

Q: Why boiling water?
A: It helps create soft, tender dumplings with a smooth texture.

Q: Can I freeze the dumplings?
A: Yes—freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray, then store up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make them thicker or thinner?
A: Absolutely—thicker dumplings are fluffier, thinner ones cook faster.

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