How to Make Southern Dumplings
These soft, fluffy Southern dumplings are the perfect addition to homemade chicken and dumplings or any comforting broth. Made with just a few pantry staples, they’re simple, hearty, and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- ¼ cup shortening or lard
- ¾ cup whole milk (plus a little more if needed)
For the Broth (optional):
- 1 whole cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour and shortening. Cut the shortening into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into strips or squares using a knife or pizza cutter.
- Bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil. If making chicken and dumplings, add the shredded chicken to the broth first.
- Drop the dumplings into the simmering broth one at a time, stirring gently to keep them from sticking together.
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes, until the dumplings are tender and cooked through.
- Stir in butter and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips
- Avoid lifting the lid while the dumplings cook, as the steam helps them become light and fluffy.
- For richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes