There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade dumplings to soothe the soul and fill the belly. At Taste of Home, we’re excited to share our favorite homemade dumpling recipes that are sure to become a staple in your household. From classic chicken and dumplings to more adventurous options like beef and vegetable, we’ve got you covered.
One of the best things about homemade dumplings is that they’re incredibly versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, there’s a dumpling recipe out there for you. And the best part? Most of our recipes can be made in under an hour, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Classic Chicken and Dumplings
This classic recipe is a staple for a reason. Made with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, savory broth, it’s the perfect comfort food. To make it, you’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
Simply sauté the chicken and onions in butter until cooked through, then add in the chicken broth, flour, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, mix together the heavy cream and a pinch of salt and pepper, then drop by spoonfuls onto the top of the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Beef and Vegetable Dumplings
If you’re looking for a more substantial dumpling recipe, look no further than our beef and vegetable option. Made with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal. To make it, you’ll need:
- 1 pound beef stew meat
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
Brown the beef in a pot over medium-high heat, then add in the mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is tender. Meanwhile, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper, then add in the heavy cream and mix until a dough forms. Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the top of the simmering broth and cover the pot. Let cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Potato and Cheese Dumplings
If you’re looking for a dumpling recipe that’s a little more indulgent, our potato and cheese option is sure to hit the spot. Made with tender potatoes, creamy cheese, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a decadent and delicious treat. To make it, you’ll need:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper. Mix in the grated cheese until well combined, then stir in the flour. Drop the mixture by spoonfuls onto the top of a pot of simmering broth (such as chicken or beef broth) and cover the pot. Let cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Serve hot, topped with additional grated cheese and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Sweet Potato and Sage Dumplings
If you!re looking for a dumpling recipe that’s a little more unique, our sweet potato and sage option is sure to intrigue. Made with tender sweet potatoes, fragrant sage, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a delicious and unexpected twist on traditional dumplings. To make it, you’ll need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Boil the sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix in the flour, then drop the mixture by spoonfuls onto the top of a pot of simmering broth (such as chicken or beef broth). Cover the pot and let cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Serve hot, topped with additional chopped sage and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips and Variations
One of the best things about homemade dumplings is that they’re incredibly versatile. Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your dumpling game to the next level:
- Experiment with different types of broth, such as chicken, beef, or vegetable, to change up the flavor of your dumplings.
- Add in some diced herbs or spices, such as parsley, thyme, or paprika, to give your dumplings an extra boost of flavor.
- Try using different types of flour, such as whole wheat or cornmeal, to change up the texture of your dumplings.
- Add in some grated cheese or diced vegetables to make your dumplings even more substantial and satisfying.
With these tips and variations, you can create a wide range of delicious homemade dumpling recipes that are sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and new, we’ve got you covered.
Conclusion
In conclusion, homemade dumplings are a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in a wide range of ways. From classic chicken and dumplings to more adventurous options like beef and vegetable, there’s a dumpling recipe out there for everyone. With these tips and variations, you can create a wide range of delicious homemade dumpling recipes that are sure to become a staple in your household. So why not get started today and see what amazing dumpling creations you can come up with?
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about homemade dumplings:
- Q: What type of flour is best for making dumplings?
A: All-purpose flour is a good all-around choice for making dumplings, but you can also experiment with other types of flour, such as whole wheat or cornmeal, to change up the texture and flavor of your dumplings.
- Q: Can I make dumplings ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them?
A: Yes, you can make dumplings ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for later use. Simply cook the dumplings as directed, then let them cool and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to serve.
- Q: What’s the best way to cook dumplings?
A: The best way to cook dumplings is to simmer them in a pot of broth or water until they’re cooked through and fluffy. You can also pan-fry or bake dumplings for a crisper exterior and a softer interior.
- Q: Can I add other ingredients to my dumpling dough?
A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to your dumpling dough, such as grated cheese, diced herbs, or chopped vegetables, to give your dumplings extra flavor and texture.
We hope these FAQs have been helpful in answering your questions about homemade dumplings. Happy cooking!