Homemade Southern Dumplings Recipe
Looking for the perfect Southern-style dumpling recipe to pair with your favorite chicken and dumplings or hearty stew? These classic homemade Southern dumplings are tender, fluffy, and made from scratch with simple pantry staples. Whether you prefer flat or drop dumplings, this easy recipe will bring the taste of down-home comfort food to your table in just 35 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients for Traditional Southern Dumplings:
For the Dumplings:
2 cups self-rising flour
¼ cup shortening
¾ cup boiling water
Instructions: How to Make Southern Dumplings from Scratch
Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour. Cut in the shortening using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
Gradually pour in the boiling water, stirring until a soft dough forms and holds together.
Choose Your Dumpling Style:
For Flat Dumplings:
Lightly flour your surface and roll dough to â…› inch thick.
Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice into strips or squares. Set aside.
For Drop Dumplings:
Skip the rolling! Simply pinch off pieces of dough and form rustic dumplings by hand.
Cook the Dumplings:
Bring your chicken broth, stew, or fruit filling to a gentle boil.
Drop dumplings in a few at a time to prevent clumping.
Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes without stirring.
Continue adding dumplings in batches.
Once all dumplings are in, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes until fluffy and fully cooked.
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot dumplings into bowls with rich broth, savory chicken, or sweet fruit sauce. These dumplings are perfect in chicken and dumplings, Southern stews, or even in fruit cobblers for dessert!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4–6
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