Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Authentic Old-Fashioned Drop Dumplings from Scratch

How to Make Old Fashioned Drop Dumplings from Scratch

Dumplings are a beloved comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. The process of making old-fashioned drop dumplings from scratch is both rewarding and simple. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these homemade dumplings are sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create these delightful dumplings that capture the essence of traditional cuisine.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
– 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1.

Mix the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and vegetable oil. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until the dough forms a ball. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too wet, add a little more flour. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2.

Rest the Dough:

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This will make the dough easier to work with and improve the texture of the dumplings.

3.

Prepare the Filling:

In a separate bowl, combine the chopped onions, celery, carrots, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine.

4.

Shape the Dumplings:

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles using a knife or a pizza cutter. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough piece, then fold the dough over to form a triangle or half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together to seal.

5.

Cook the Dumplings:

In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the dumplings to the boiling broth, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through.

6.

Serve:

While the dumplings are cooking, prepare the sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl. Once the dumplings are cooked, remove them from the broth and place them in a serving dish. Drizzle the sauce over the dumplings and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade old-fashioned drop dumplings with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or alongside your favorite main dish. These dumplings are a delightful way to bring the warmth and nostalgia of traditional cuisine to your table.