Old-Fashioned Southern Dumplings Recipe – Fluffy, Tender, and Truly Comforting

 

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, Southern-style dumplings to bring comfort and nostalgia to the table. This traditional Southern dumpling recipe is simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re craving classic chicken and dumplings or a hearty stew with fluffy dough pillows, this recipe delivers every time.

In this detailed guide, we’ll show you how to make perfect Southern dumplings from scratch—whether you prefer the rolled-out, flat kind or rustic, drop-style dumplings. Plus, we’ll share helpful tips, serving ideas, and variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups self-rising flour
• 1/4 cup shortening, lard, or cold unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup boiling water

Don’t have self-rising flour? Mix 2 cups all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

 Make the Dough

1. Place the self-rising flour in a large mixing bowl.
2. Cut in the shortening or lard using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly pour in the boiling water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring gently until the dough comes together.
4. Once the dough forms a ball, let it rest for 5 minutes. Don’t overwork it—this keeps the dumplings soft and tender.

Shape the Dumplings

 For Flat Dumplings:

1. Lightly flour a clean surface.
2. Roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into strips or small squares.
4. Set aside on a floured tray so they don’t stick together.

 For Drop Dumplings:

1. Skip rolling altogether.
2. Simply pinch off small, bite-sized pieces of dough with your fingers.
3. Shape into rough balls or rustic chunks—no need to be perfect.

Cook the Dumplings

1. In a large pot, bring your chicken broth, soup, or fruit mixture to a gentle boil.
2. Carefully add dumplings a few at a time. Stir very gently, or not at all, to avoid breaking them.
3. Cover the pot and cook on low heat.
4. Let them cook undisturbed for 20 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
5. If needed, stir once halfway through cooking—very gently.

Be patient. Opening the lid or stirring too much can ruin the texture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Chicken and Dumplings: Add cooked shredded chicken, carrots, and celery to the broth before adding dumplings.
• Beef Stew with Dumplings: Use beef broth and tender chunks of slow-cooked beef for a richer twist.
• Fruit Dumplings: Cook the dumplings in a cinnamon-sugar fruit mixture like peaches or berries for a sweet Southern dessert.

Recipe Timing:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yields: 4–6 servings

Tips for Success:

• Don’t skip resting the dough—this helps the gluten relax, making the dumplings softer.
• Use boiling water, not just warm—this creates steam and lightness in the dough.
• Cover the pot tightly during cooking to trap moisture and cook the dumplings evenly.
• Avoid overmixing—the less you handle the dough, the better the texture.

Variations to Try:

• Add chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives to the dough for extra flavor.
• Use buttermilk instead of water for a tangy Southern twist.
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the dough for savory dumplings.

Final Thoughts

Southern dumplings are more than just a recipe—they’re a warm memory, a taste of tradition, and the kind of comfort food that brings people together. Whether you make them flat or drop-style, in savory broth or sweet syrup, one thing is certain: they’re going to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today, and discover why this Southern classic has stood the test of time.