Classic Mama’s Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Best
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this timeless Chicken and Dumplings recipe, passed down through generations. Perfect for cozy family dinners, this dish combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings for a hearty meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients:
For the Base:
1 whole chicken
4 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons shortening
3/4 cup milk
3 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
Preparation:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Stew a whole chicken until tender. Remove the meat from the bones and set aside. Reserve 4 cups of the chicken broth.
2. Make the Dumplings: Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk just until the dough is moistened.
3. Assemble and Cook: Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pan. Drop teaspoonfuls of dumpling dough into the broth, dipping the spoon in the liquid first for easy sliding. Add sliced hard-boiled eggs. Cover tightly and cook for 15 minutes.
4. Alternative Dumpling Method: For firmer dumplings, roll the dough on a floured surface and cut into strips before adding to the broth.
5. Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy this classic, soul-warming dish!
Note: Traditional recipes like this often rely on sensory cues rather than exact times and temperatures. Trust your instincts and adjust as needed.
Enjoy this nostalgic, heartwarming recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!