Name: Southern Dumplings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; ¼ cup shortening or lard; ¾ cup boiling water

Southern Dumplings are a comforting classic, made from simple pantry ingredients and cooked right in your favorite soup, broth, or fruit mixture. These tender, fluffy dumplings add warmth and heartiness to any meal, whether savory or sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings a taste of Southern tradition to your table with minimal effort. The dumplings are incredibly versatile—they can be shaped flat or dropped rustic-style, adapting perfectly to whatever you’re cooking. They’re quick to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients, and yield a light, fluffy texture that’s truly satisfying.

Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
¼ cup shortening or lard
¾ cup boiling water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Place self-rising flour in a large bowl. Cut in shortening or lard with a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add boiling water, stirring until a dough ball forms.
For flat dumplings: Lightly flour a surface and roll dough to ⅛ inch thickness. Cut into strips, then squares. Set aside.
For drop dumplings: Pinch off small dough pieces for a rustic style—no rolling needed.
Bring your soup, broth, or fruit mixture to a gentle boil. Drop a few dumplings at a time to prevent sticking. Cover and cook undisturbed for a few minutes.
Continue adding dumplings in batches. Once all are in, reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes until dumplings are tender and fluffy.
Serve warm with plenty of broth or fruit.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use buttermilk instead of boiling water for a richer flavor.
Substitute vegetable shortening with butter for a slightly different taste.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the dough for an herby twist.
Drop the dumplings into a fruit compote or stewed fruit for a sweet dessert version.
Make smaller bite-sized dumplings for soup or larger ones to serve as a side dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in broth or microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid drying out by reheating slowly on the stove with a bit of liquid.

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have self-rising flour?

You can make your own by combining 2 cups all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt.

Can I freeze these dumplings?

It’s best to freeze the dough before cooking. Shape and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen by adding them directly to boiling liquid.

Can I use water instead of boiling water?

Boiling water helps to partially cook the dough and make dumplings tender. Using cold water may result in a tougher texture.

What soups go best with Southern dumplings?

Chicken and vegetable soups, beef stew, or even tomato-based soups work wonderfully with these dumplings.

How do I prevent dumplings from sticking together?

Drop them in small batches and make sure the liquid is boiling gently. Stir gently or space them apart if flat.

Can I make these dumplings gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use wheat flour, but you can experiment with gluten-free self-rising flour blends designed for baking.

Are these dumplings sweet or savory?

They’re neutral in flavor, so they work well with both savory dishes like stews and sweet dishes like fruit compotes.

Can I add seasoning to the dumplings?

Yes, adding salt, pepper, or herbs to the dough can enhance the flavor.

How do I know when dumplings are cooked through?

They should be tender, fluffy, and not doughy inside. Cooking for about 20 minutes on simmer usually does the trick.

Can I make dumplings ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and refrigerate for a few hours before cooking, but fresh cooking gives the best texture.

Conclusion

Southern Dumplings are a timeless comfort food that elevates any meal with their tender, fluffy texture and simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether paired with a savory broth or a sweet fruit compote, they bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Easy to make and highly adaptable, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic Southern cooking.