Savor the warmth of a chicken and dumplings recipe that brings family together. Discover the techniques behind this timeless dish!
The Heart of Chicken and Dumplings
In the chill of winter, few meals can rival a steaming bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings. As the rich broth envelops thin dumplings, it offers a comforting embrace. This recipe, passed down from Nelda Risher, draws inspiration from the cherished methods of The Revolving Table Restaurant. Let's dive into this delicious cold weather recipe that fosters family bonding.
A Family Tradition: The Nelda Risher Way
Many families have their own unique takes on chicken and dumplings, but the approach taught by my mother flows with love and tradition. Using techniques she gleaned from a colleague, Nelda Risher emphasizes the need for thin dumplings cooked in a robust chicken broth. The guiding principle? The thinner the dumpling, the better the dish. This deeply rooted belief celebrates texture and warmth, appealing to diners of all ages.
Unlike other dumpling styles I’ve encountered during my travels, my mother’s version remains steadfast in our family. The key lies in the preparation process, which she learned from Naomi Magee, a dear friend and educator who introduced her to the delightful The Revolving Table Restaurant dumplings. The legendary eatery served delectable dishes from 1915 until its closure in 2001.
The Cold Water Technique
What makes the dumplings in this recipe truly special is the cold technique. Using cold flour and ice water, as taught by Naomi, changes the game. Why is this crucial? Cooler ingredients slow gluten development, allowing the flour to absorb water gradually. This process creates a dough that's easier to handle and less sticky, which is essential for crafting the perfect dumplings.
When preparing your dumplings, choosing a sturdy wooden rolling pin is vital, just like my mom does. A heavy-duty option ensures uniform thickness while rolling out the dough. Within the kitchen, my mother always comments, "You can have a mess with a rolling pin, but the cold helps ensure the dough has the right texture." This philosophy encourages readers to embrace her cooking tips, which highlight the value of technique in the kitchen.
Making the Perfect Dumplings
Creating homemade chicken and dumplings might seem daunting, but the process is enjoyable and straightforward. Watching my mom expertly drop her dumplings into boiling broth is a sight to behold. Here’s a breakdown of her signature steps
1. Ingredients Preparation
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- Enough water to cover chicken by one inch
- 2 cups of cold all-purpose flour, stored in the refrigerator or freezer
- 1/4 cup of cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup ice water (approximate)
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup of milk
- Half stick of butter (or 1/4 stick if the chicken broth is rich)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
2. Cook Chicken
Boil the chicken until tender, allowing the rich flavors to build in the broth.
3. Prepare the Dumpling Dough
Combine cold flour, oil, and salt. Gradually add ice water and stir until a soft dough forms. Roll out until it's about 1/8 inch thick and cut into strips approximately one and a half inches wide.
4. Bring It Together
Leave around 8 cups of water in the pot and bring the chicken broth back to a rolling boil. Drop the dumpling pieces into the boiling water, ensuring a satisfying texture forms as they cook.
5. Finish with Care
Once all dumplings are in, reduce the heat and incorporate butter and milk. Stir gently, adding pulled chicken back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve hot for warm family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Cold Weather and Family Bonding
This dish transcends mere sustenance; it's about connection. My mother often reflects on how chicken and dumplings create memories around the table. Even during summer, they carried a special place in our hearts, but undeniably, cooler temperatures elevate the experience.
Many home cooks believe that a touch of freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor just before serving, providing that final touch to a cherished recipe. Watching family members reunite over such a meal, sharing laughter and stories, not only nurtures the body but also feeds the soul.
Emphasis on making thin dumplings echoes the simplicity and beauty of traditional cooking, revealing layers of flavor and texture that are essential. A reminder that cooking is often a labor of love, with recipes honed over generations.
Wrap Up Your Dinner with Love
Incorporating this chicken and dumplings recipe into your family meals can forge unforgettable memories. The techniques passed down allow families to relish cooking together and sitting down to savor the fruits of their labor. Embrace the warmth of homemade chicken and dumplings, foster connections with cherished ones, and revel in the comfort of a true culinary classic.
By practicing these dumpling making techniques, you not only learn a valuable skill but also preserve a timeless tradition that can be shared across generations.