One Pot Dumpling Recipe: Fluffy Clouds of Joy in Every Bite

Just when you thought comfort food couldn’t get any better, along comes this one pot dumpling recipe to prove you wrong. Jam-packed with flavor and requiring minimal cleanup, this dish is a weeknight savior that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots.
  • The dumplings are light, fluffy, and absorb all the delicious flavors of the broth.
  • Customizable with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand, making it a versatile dish for any pantry.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot with lid
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

One Pot Dumpling Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

Start by dicing your carrots, celery, and onion into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Mince the garlic finely. This not only saves time but also ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor. Tip: Uniform cuts mean uniform cooking, so take your time here.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In your large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This builds the flavor base of your dish.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the veggies to soften and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Mix the Dumpling Dough

While the broth simmers, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings, so a few lumps are perfectly fine. Tip: The dough should be sticky but manageable.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes without peeking. This steam bath is what makes them so fluffy. Tip: Resist the urge to lift the lid; the steam is key to perfect dumplings.

Tips and Tricks

For those looking to elevate their dumpling game, consider these advanced tips. First, swapping out half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Second, adding a teaspoon of vinegar to the milk can make the dumplings even lighter. Lastly, for a richer broth, sauté the veggies in bacon fat instead of butter. These small tweaks can make a big difference in the final dish.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and add mushrooms for umami.
  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the veggies and a pinch of cayenne to the dough.
  • Cheesy Dumplings: Stir in 1/2 cup grated cheddar into the dough before cooking.
  • Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the dough for a fresh flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute to maintain the dough’s consistency. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can vary in absorption.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep the dumplings from drying out.

Can I freeze the dumplings?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze them before cooking. Portion the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Summary

This one pot dumpling recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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