Turkey and dumplings is truly the perfect comfort food to enjoy during the holiday season. This mouthwatering dish combines tender pieces of turkey with delicious, fluffy dumplings in a rich and hearty gravy.
Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use your leftover turkey or simply want to treat your loved ones to a tasty and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to bring everyone together.
In this article, you’ll find a simple and easy-to-follow turkey and dumplings recipe that even the most inexperienced cooks can master. By following each step carefully, you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful addition to your holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Be prepared, with this scrumptious dish in your cooking repertoire, you might just be asked to share the recipe at every family gathering. Grab your ingredients and get ready to cook up this classic comfort food – your family will thank you. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive more recipes, tips, and ideas to elevate your holiday meals to the next level.
Ingredients Required
To prepare this delicious turkey and dumplings recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups leftover turkey (shredded)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 cups turkey or chicken stock
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water or milk (to make a slurry)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 bay leaf
For the Dumplings:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon table salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Sliced scallions
- Minced chives
Start by preparing and measuring all your ingredients before beginning the cooking process. This will make it easier to follow the recipe steps without any distractions or delays.
For the filling, make sure to shred the leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces. Use turkey or chicken stock depending on your preference or availability. If you wish, you can replace the kosher salt with table salt; just remember to adjust the amount accordingly.
When making the dumplings, ensure the butter is melted before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help you achieve a smoother consistency for your dumplings.
Remember to add the optional garnishes after the dish is completely cooked. Chopped parsley, sliced scallions, and minced chives will add a pleasant burst of color and freshness to your turkey and dumplings.
Preparation Instructions
Cooking the Turkey
To begin your turkey and dumplings journey, you’ll first need to cook the turkey. You can do this by baking the turkey in the oven or using a Dutch oven to steam the meat. Whichever method you prefer, make sure your turkey is cooked thoroughly before moving on to the next step. If you have cooked turkey leftovers from previous meals or casseroles, feel free to use it in this recipe. Be sure to refrigerate the cooked turkey as soon as it cools.
Making the Dumplings
For the dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of dried thyme
- Pinch of dried sage
Combine the flour, buttermilk, egg, baking soda, thyme, and sage in a mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until it forms a dough. Then, roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Set the dumplings aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Combining and Simmering
Now, it’s time to bring the turkey and dumplings together. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, prepare a roux using turkey gravy or a combination of butter, flour, and chicken broth. Add the following ingredients to enhance the flavor and richness of the dish:
- 1 cup mixed vegetables, such as carrots and peas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme and parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add the cooked turkey to the skillet and mix well. Next, place the dumplings on top of the mixture, leaving some space between each dumpling. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid and let the dish simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and become fluffy. At this point, the creamy mixture should have thickened. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until they soften.
Your turkey and dumplings dish is now ready to enjoy! Serve it as a main course or alongside other dishes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Nutritional Facts
Turkey and dumplings is a delicious and comforting dish that offers a good balance of essential nutrients. Let’s take a look at the nutritional information of this recipe.
The main source of protein in this dish is the turkey. A serving (about 100 grams) of cooked, skinless turkey breast provides approximately 30 grams of protein, which contributes to building and repairing muscle tissue.
Carbohydrates in this recipe primarily come from the dumplings. A single dumpling may contain around 15 grams of carbohydrates. These carbohydrates supply your body with energy and help regulate blood sugar levels.
The total fat content of turkey and dumplings varies depending on the specific ingredients used. Generally, turkey is a lean meat, and removing the skin can help reduce saturated fat content. Choosing whole-grain flour for the dumplings can also increase their fiber content.
Here is a quick glance at the nutritional facts per serving of turkey and dumplings:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
Peas, which are sometimes added to turkey and dumplings, contribute additional nutrients. A half cup of peas contains about 4 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein, as well as valuable nutrients such as vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Turkey and dumplings can also provide a good dose of vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system. The dish contains small amounts of iron and calcium – essential minerals for oxygen transport in the blood and maintaining strong bones, respectively.
In conclusion, turkey and dumplings is a tasty and nutritious meal that can be adapted to suit your dietary needs. By making healthy ingredient choices, you can enjoy this dish while sticking to your nutritional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to make the dumpling dough?
To make the perfect dumpling dough, you should combine all-purpose flour and water to form a smooth, elastic dough. It is crucial to find the right balance of water and flour for the dough to be pliable and not stick to your hands or the work surface. Start with a 2:1 ratio of flour to water, and adjust as needed. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, then let it rest for 30 minutes before rolling and cutting.
How can I create a gluten-free version?
To make gluten-free turkey and dumplings, simply replace the all-purpose flour in both the filling and dough recipes with a gluten-free flour blend. Check that your gluten-free blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to ensure the dough remains elastic and easy to work with. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid used in the dough, as some gluten-free flours absorb more liquid than all-purpose flour.
What type of filling can be used for turkey dumplings?
For a turkey dumpling filling, you can use cooked and shredded turkey, combined with seasoning and finely chopped vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery. You might also consider including additional ingredients like mushrooms, fresh herbs, or even a splash of white wine to complement the turkey flavor. The filling should be seasoned with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
Are there variations of turkey and dumpling soup?
Yes, there are many variations of turkey and dumpling soup. You can customize your soup by adding different vegetables, such as peas or corn, or by using different types of broth, such as chicken or vegetable. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and enjoy experimenting with different herbs and spices. Some people also like to include pasta or rice in their soup for an alternative twist with turkey and dumplings.
How to make dumplings with Bisquick?
To make dumplings using Bisquick, follow the instructions on the Bisquick package for making dumplings or biscuits. Combine the Bisquick mix with milk until a soft dough forms, then drop spoonfuls of the dough into your simmering soup or stew. Cover the pot and allow the dumplings to cook until they are cooked through, typically 10-15 minutes. This method saves time and eliminates the need for making dough from scratch.
What are some tips for making a turkey and dumplings with biscuits?
If you prefer to use biscuits for your turkey and dumplings, you can either make them from scratch or use store-bought biscuit dough. Bake the biscuits separately while your turkey and vegetables cook in the broth. When the biscuits are golden and the turkey filling is cooked, break the biscuits, and place them on top of the soup to create a doughy layer that mimics the texture of dumplings. This is an easy and versatile way to create a delicious turkey and dumplings dish.
