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Southern Dumplings

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: About 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish, Dumplings
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Southern Dumplings are a classic comfort food made with just three simple ingredients—self-rising flour, shortening, and boiling water—creating a tender, fluffy dough perfect for simmering in rich broths or savory stews. This easy, old-fashioned recipe delivers authentic Southern flavor every time.


Ingredients

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 cups self-rising flour

  • 1/4 cup shortening or lard

  • 3/4 cup boiling water


Instructions

Make the Dough:

  1. Place the self-rising flour in a large mixing bowl.

  2. Using a pastry blender or fork, cut in the shortening or lard until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Slowly add the boiling water, a little at a time, stirring gently until a cohesive dough forms and can be shaped into a ball.

To Use in Recipes (e.g., Chicken and Dumplings):
4. Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.
5. Cut into strips or squares, as desired.
6. Drop dumplings into gently boiling broth and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.


Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of poultry seasoning or black pepper to the dough.

  • Do not overwork the dough to keep dumplings tender.

  • These are flat-style dumplings (sometimes called “slick” or “rolled” dumplings), not fluffy biscuit-style.