There is something about a warm bowl of chicken and dumpling soup on a cold or rainy day–but you don’t have to wait for a shift in the weather or seasons. You can make this soup all year round when you’re craving something hearty! It’s a fantastic comfort food because it fills you up while providing nutrients.
The dumplings are a part of why this soup is so loved. But, what is a dumpling? Many different types of dumplings exist in diverse forms across cultures, from Chinese dim sum to Japanese gyoza to Eastern European pierogis. Dumplings have a universal appeal–and for a good reason!
Dumplings for soup are usually a combination of flour and water or milk. These small pieces of dough can be enhanced using various savory and sweet ingredients. They can be steamed, boiled, or fried, depending on the type of dumpling.
As we explore the world of dumplings, we’ll delve into different kinds of dumplings for soup and the ingredients that make up one of the best parts of the meal.
Dumplings Explained
What is a dumpling made of? Making dumplings is a simple process and only requires a few ingredients. They are made of flour, milk, butter, seasoning, and sometimes, eggs. These ingredients make a dough you can easily form into a ball. You can include other fillings that pair well in chicken soup, such as cheese and rosemary.
Dumplings for Chicken Soup
There are three different types of dumplings typically used in chicken soup. They can all make a delicious addition to your soup, so the kind you make is based on personal preference more than anything.
Drop Dumplings
These dumplings are a fluffier and heartier option that has a rustic charm. A drop dumpling recipe usually includes flour, milk, baking powder, and salt. You combine these ingredients and drop the dumplings into the simmering soup using a spoon or cookie scoop. These dumplings are quick and easy to make.
Noodle Dumplings
Noodle dumplings are made by rolling out dough and cutting it into strips, similarly to making noodles. The ribbons of dough are put into the soup to cook. This dumpling style generally includes eggs and may require a little dough kneading.
Biscuit Dumplings
You can make biscuit dumplings with canned or homemade biscuit dough. The biscuits must be separated and cut into quarters before being dropped into the soup. The biscuit dumplings will puff up in the soup but usually come out on the denser side.
Can You Freeze Chicken and Dumpling Soup?
You can preserve your chicken and dumpling soup in the freezer. Whether you can’t eat it all in a few days or you want to save it for later, the freezer is a great option. The soup will be good for three to four months once frozen.
Make sure your soup has completely cooled before freezing. Remove the dumplings from the soup and place them in a freezer bag. Then, pour the soup into a different freezer bag and remove as much air as possible before closing. Freezing the dumplings separate from the soup will help maintain their integrity.
When you’re ready to defrost your soup, place the bags in the refrigerator overnight. Once the soup has partially thawed, reheat it on the stovetop until it reaches a gentle simmer.
Next, add the dumplings to the soup and cook until tender. This two-step process will ensure your dumplings retain their texture and shape. Otherwise, you may end up with mushy dumplings that aren’t very appetizing.
So, why not make a big batch of chicken and dumpling soup? It’s a rich, creamy soup with delicious dumplings that will never disappoint. You can savor the comforting flavors and freeze the rest to enjoy whenever the mood strikes!
