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–+ servings
Dumpling Soup 1

Hearty Homemade Dumpling Soup

This comforting dumpling soup combines tender homemade dumplings with a flavorful broth for the perfect cold-weather meal. Ready in just an hour, it's both accessible and impressive for any home cook.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Pastry cutter (optional)

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 2 carrots peeled and sliced into coins
  • 2 celery stalks finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 6 cups chicken broth vegetable broth works for vegetarian option
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded (omit for vegetarian version)
  • 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

For the Dumplings

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter cold and cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup milk plant-based milk works too
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs parsley, dill, or chives, finely chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the onions become translucent (about 5 minutes).
  • Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately add the chicken broth, cooked chicken, bacon (if using), thyme, and bay leaf.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • While the soup simmers, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
  • Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gently stir in the milk and herbs until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture directly into the simmering soup. Aim for 8-10 evenly sized dumplings, leaving space between each.
  • Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 15 minutes without peeking.
  • Once the dumplings are cooked through (they should be firm but tender when pierced with a toothpick), remove the bay leaf.
  • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Ladle the hot soup and dumplings into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a lighter version, consider these modifications:
  • Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to increase fiber content
  • Use lean turkey instead of chicken and omit the bacon to reduce fat content
  • Add extra vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to boost nutritional value
  • For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free flour blend and ensure your broth is gluten-free
  • The soup actually develops deeper flavors overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 28gFat: 16gSodium: 860mgFiber: 3g
Keyword Dumpling Soup, Chicken and Dumplings, Comfort Food, Homemade Soup
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