Fluffy and flavorful, these Easy Drop Dumplings are a comforting addition to your favorite soups or stews. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have tender, pillowy dumplings that soak up the rich flavors of the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes with pantry staples.
- Customizable: Add herbs or spices to complement your soup or stew.
- Perfect Texture: Light, fluffy, and tender dumplings every time.
- Versatile: Pairs well with soups, stews, or gravy-based dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried herbs (optional, such as thyme or sage)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted and cooled
Directions
Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs until well blended. Create a well in the center.
- In a small bowl, combine milk and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the dumplings tender. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky.
Shape the Dumplings
- Use a heaping teaspoon to scoop portions of the dough.
- Roll lightly into rough balls and place on parchment paper. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
Cook the Dumplings
- Ensure your soup or stew is simmering gently over low heat.
- Drop the dumplings carefully into the pot. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid while the dumplings cook to ensure they steam properly.
Serve
- Check that the dumplings are cooked through (they should be fluffy and no longer doughy inside).
- Serve hot and enjoy these fluffy dumplings with your favorite soup or stew!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 10 dumplings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Dumplings: Add 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped parsley, rosemary, or dill for a fresh twist.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in the soup or stew over low heat until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I make dumplings without butter?
Yes, you can use oil or margarine as a substitute, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
2. Why are my dumplings dense?
Over-mixing the dough can lead to dense dumplings. Mix just until combined.
3. Can I freeze the dumpling dough?
The dough is best used fresh, but cooked dumplings can be frozen and reheated in soup.
4. What soups pair well with dumplings?
Chicken soup, beef stew, vegetable soup, or creamy chowders are excellent choices.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid if needed.
6. How do I know when the dumplings are done?
They should be puffed up and fluffy, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
7. Can I add vegetables to the dumplings?
Finely chopped cooked carrots, onions, or herbs can be mixed into the dough for added texture and flavor.
8. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your pot has enough space for all the dumplings to cook evenly.
9. Can I make these dairy-free?
Substitute milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
10. What’s the secret to fluffy dumplings?
Keeping the lid on the pot while they cook ensures the dumplings steam properly, resulting in a light texture.
Conclusion
Easy Drop Dumplings are a classic addition to any soup or stew, bringing warmth and comfort to the table. With their tender texture and customizable flavors, they’re a versatile and satisfying side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Try them today and elevate your favorite soups and stews!
PrintEasy Drop Dumplings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 dumplings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy and flavorful dumplings perfect for soups or stews. With just a few simple ingredients, these dumplings are an easy way to elevate your comfort food game.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon optional dried herbs (e.g., thyme, sage)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Ensure your soup or stew is simmering gently on the stove, ready for the dumplings to cook.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Stir until evenly mixed.
- In a small bowl, mix milk and melted butter.
Mix the Dough:
- Create a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients.
- Stir gently until just combined. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky—avoid overmixing.
Shape the Dumplings:
- Use heaping teaspoons to form small dough balls. Place them on a piece of parchment paper.
- Let the dough balls rest for 5 minutes.
Cook the Dumplings:
- Reduce the soup or stew to a low simmer.
- Drop the dumplings into the pot, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
Notes
- Flavor Boost: Add dried herbs like parsley or sage for extra flavor.
- Soup Base: These dumplings are excellent in chicken soup, beef stew, or creamy gravies.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the soup or stew.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 89 kcal per dumpling
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