Chicken and Dumplings

DH loves Chicken and Dumplings. One of his all time favorite foods. His mom was not a good cook - with the exception of Fried Chicken and Chicken and Dumplings.


Here are two recipes - one is mine (from a long ago co-worker's grandmother) and one created in the style of my MIL's. The broth is how I prepare chicken soup (a favorite and a staple in my home).


BROTH

Chicken, whole
2 medium to large onions
4 carrots, cut into chunks
4 celery stalks, cut into chunks


Place whole or cut up chicken in a large stock pot. Remove any visable fat. Add onions, celery and carrots. Bring to a boil and slow simmer for one hour.


Strain the broth, removing the chicken and vegetables. Toss the veggies as they have done their job. De-bone the chicken and reserve. Taste soup. Add chicken boullion, salt and pepper as needed.



DUMPLINGS (Noodle)


2 c flour
1 t salt
Ice cold water
1/4 t baking powder
1/4 c shortening


Mix dry ingredients and shortening together. Add icy water to form dough. Knead and roll into a thin rectangle. The dumplings will expand as they cook. Cut into 1" squares and drop into boiling broth. Reduce heat so slow simmer, cover and cook 20-30 minutes




DUMPLINGS (Egg)

3 eggs
1/2 c water
2 c flour
1 t salt

Mix wet ingredients, then add flour. Us dough like this for drop dumplings or add a bit more flour to form dough. Knead and roll into a thin rectangle. The dumplings will expand as they cook. Cut into 1" x 3" strips and drop into boiling broth. Reduce heat so slow simmer, cover and cook 10-20 minutes


Chicken AND Dumplings




When dumplings are ready, return cooked chicken to the pot. Cooked vegetables (carrots, celery and onions largely diced) may also be added to the soup.


Enjoy