Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Sifted for best texture.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Gives the dumplings their lift and fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Adds flavor to the dumplings.
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk works best, but you can use 2% or dairy-free options if needed.
- 4 tablespoons melted butter – Adds richness and tenderness.
- Optional seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon sage, or any preferred dried herbs.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt into a large mixing bowl. Sifting will help make the dumplings extra light and airy.
- If you’re using any optional seasonings (like garlic powder or sage), add them to the dry mixture now and whisk to ensure even distribution.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add the milk to the butter, stirring to blend.
- Pour the milk and melted butter into the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold the mixture until it’s just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
- Prepare Your Stew:
- Make sure your stew is hot and simmering gently over medium heat. You’ll want enough broth or liquid in the stew to steam the dumplings. Aim for at least a couple of inches of liquid depth.
- Form and Drop the Dumplings:
- Use a large spoon or ice cream scoop for even-sized dumplings. Scoop a heaping spoonful of batter and gently drop it into the simmering stew. Continue until all the batter is used, leaving a bit of space between each dumpling to allow for expansion.
- Cook the Dumplings:
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 15 minutes without uncovering. Keeping the lid on is essential as it traps steam, allowing the dumplings to cook evenly.
- After 15 minutes, check that the dumplings have risen and the tops have formed small “cracks.” If the dumplings are still wet or doughy in the middle, let them cook for an additional 2–3 minutes with the lid on.
- Serve the Dumplings:
- Once done, turn off the heat and carefully scoop the dumplings out with a slotted spoon. Serve them immediately with your stew, as they’re best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- If you’d like, garnish the stew and dumplings with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives.
Tips for Perfect Dumplings:
- Avoid overmixing the batter, which can make the dumplings dense.
- Check liquid levels in the stew. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to maintain enough moisture for steaming.
- For extra fluffy dumplings, you can replace half the milk with buttermilk or add a splash of white vinegar to the milk to create a subtle tang, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions:
Yankee Dumplings are traditionally served in rich stews with vegetables and meats like chicken, turkey, or beef. They’re also great paired with roasted root vegetables or a side salad for balance.
This recipe is a delicious, time-honored family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Enjoy!