16 Dumpling Recipe South Africa Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
If you're a fan of comfort food, then you've probably heard of the delicious and versatile dish known as dumplings. These little pockets of dough can be filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings, making them a popular dish all around the world. In South Africa, dumplings have been a staple in the cuisine for generations, with each family having their own unique twist on the classic recipe. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the dumpling recipe in South Africa, its history, and how to make it yourself at home.
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Canola Oil, Curry Leaves, Minced
Bunny Chow is a popular street food in South Africa that originated in Durban. It consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with delicious curry, making it the perfect handheld meal. The name "Bunny Chow" is believed to come from the term "Bania" which was used to refer to Indian traders in South Africa.
2of 20
Bobotie – Savory ground meat custard from South Africa
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Whole Milk, Large Eggs, White Bread
Bobotie is a dish that is said to represent the fusion of cultures in South Africa. It is a savory ground meat custard that is typically made with beef or lamb, and flavored with spices and chutney. The dish is topped with a layer of egg custard and baked until golden brown. It is often served with yellow rice and chutney on the side.
3of 20
Lamb stew from South Africa
Main Ingredients: Lamb Shoulder, Butter, Tomatoes, Red Chilies, Medium
Lamb stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is popular in South Africa, especially during the colder months. It is made with tender chunks of lamb, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables, all cooked in a flavorful broth. This dish is often served with a side of rice or pap, a type of maize porridge.
4of 20
Easy Dumpling Sauce
Main Ingredients: Garlic Clove, Scallion, Soy Sauce, Chinkiang Vinegar
No dumpling meal is complete without a delicious dipping sauce! This easy dumpling sauce is made with a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and other flavorful ingredients. It is the perfect accompaniment to any type of dumpling, whether it's steamed, fried, or boiled.
5of 20
Deep South Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Chopped Onion, Chopped Green Bell Pepper
Hoppin' John is a dish that is traditionally eaten on New Year's Day in the Southern United States for good luck in the coming year. This Deep South version adds a twist by incorporating the flavors of African cuisine. It is made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon, and is often served with collard greens and cornbread.
6of 20
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chopped Onion, Carrots, Chopped Celery
This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. It is made with tender pieces of chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all baked together in a creamy and flavorful sauce. It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
7of 20
Best Potsticker Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Hot Water, Cold Water, Shredded Cabbage
Potstickers, also known as Chinese pan-fried dumplings, are a popular dish in many parts of the world. These delicious dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, cabbage, and other vegetables, and then pan-fried until crispy. They are often served with a dipping sauce and make for a great appetizer or main dish.
8of 20
Momo (South Asian Meat Dumpling)
Main Ingredients: Salt, Dough, Water, Ground Meat, Onion, Cloves, Soy
Momo is a type of dumpling that is popular in South Asian countries like Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and spices, and are often served with a spicy tomato-based dipping sauce. They can be steamed, fried, or boiled, and are a staple dish in many South Asian households.
9of 20
Vegetable Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms, Scallions, Napa Cabbage
Vegetable dumplings are a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking to enjoy the deliciousness of dumplings. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and tofu, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. They are a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional meat-filled dumplings.
10of 20
Chicken Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Chicken Broth, Large Carrots, Onions
Chicken dumpling soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for cold and rainy days. It is made with a flavorful chicken broth, tender pieces of chicken, and fluffy dumplings. This soup is easy to make and can be customized with different types of vegetables and herbs for added flavor.
11of 20
Dumpling Wrappers
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Water, Salt
Although you can buy pre-made dumpling wrappers at most grocery stores, making your own can be a fun and rewarding experience. Homemade dumpling wrappers are made with a simple mixture of flour and water and can be used to make a variety of dumpling dishes. They can be rolled out by hand or with a rolling pin, and are a great way to add a personal touch to your dumpling creations.
12of 20
Dumpling Dough From Scratch
Main Ingredients: Unbleached All Purpose Flour, Warm Water
If you're feeling extra ambitious, you can also make your own dumpling dough from scratch. This involves mixing flour, water, and sometimes other ingredients, like eggs or oil, to create a smooth and pliable dough. Homemade dumpling dough can be used to make a variety of dumpling dishes, from potstickers to wontons.
13of 20
Chicken & Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Boneless Chicken Breasts, Carrots, Celery
Chicken & Dumpling Soup is a classic Southern dish that is sure to warm you up on a chilly day. It is made with a flavorful chicken broth, tender pieces of chicken, and fluffy dumplings. The dumplings are often made with a combination of flour, milk, and eggs, and are dropped into the soup to cook.
14of 20
Easy Apple Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Crescent Rolls, Butter, Brown Sugar, Vanilla, Cinnamon
Apple dumplings are a delicious and comforting dessert that is popular in many parts of the world. They consist of a whole apple that is cored and wrapped in pastry dough, then baked until golden and crispy. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this easy apple dumpling is the perfect way to end a meal.
15of 20
Apple Dumpling Bites
Main Ingredients: Crescent Rolls, Applesauce, Granulated Sugar, Ground
If you're looking for a bite-sized version of the classic apple dumpling, then these apple dumpling bites are the perfect snack for you. They are made with diced apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked until golden and crispy. Serve them with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.
16of 20
Turkey Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter, Garlic Cloves, Carrots, Celery Stalks
Thanksgiving may be over, but you can still enjoy the flavors of the holiday with this turkey dumpling soup. It is made with leftover turkey, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked in a savory broth. This soup is a great way to use up any leftover turkey and is a comforting and delicious meal for the colder months.
17of 20
How to make Chinese dumpling wrappers
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Water, Salt, Spinach
If you love making homemade dumplings, learning how to make Chinese dumpling wrappers is a must. These wrappers are made with a simple dough and can be rolled out by hand or with a rolling pin. They are perfect for making potstickers, wontons, and other types of Chinese dumplings.
18of 20
Easy Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Sesame Oil, Fresh Ginger, Garlic Cloves, Chicken Stock
This easy dumpling soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for any day of the week. It is made with a simple broth, tender pieces of chicken or pork, and fluffy dumplings. You can also add in your favorite vegetables to make it a complete meal. It's a great way to warm up on a cold day.
19of 20
Crazy Rich Asians Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Deveined Shrimp, Ground Pork, Ginger, Garlic, Bone
If you've seen the movie "Crazy Rich Asians," then you're probably familiar with the scene where they make dumplings. These dumplings are called "siew mai" and are a type of Cantonese dumpling that is often served in dim sum restaurants. They are filled with a mixture of pork, shrimp, and other flavorful ingredients, and are a must-try for any dumpling lover.
20of 20
Soy and Vinegar Dumpling Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Vinegar, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Grated Ginger
This soy and vinegar dumpling sauce is the perfect accompaniment to any type of dumpling. It is made with a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and other flavorful ingredients. It is tangy, salty, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect balance to the rich and savory flavors of dumplings.
History of Dumplings in South Africa
Dumplings have a long history in South Africa, with their origins dating back to the early days of colonization. As Dutch and British settlers arrived in the country, they brought with them their traditional dishes, including dumplings. These early versions of dumplings were often made with simple ingredients such as flour, water, and salt, and were usually served alongside stews or soups.
Over time, as South Africa's cuisine evolved and became more diverse, so did the dumpling recipes. Today, you can find a variety of dumpling styles and flavors throughout the country, each with its own unique twist and cultural influences. From the savory and spicy African-style dumplings to the sweet and fruity Cape Malay dumplings, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The Perfect Dumpling Dough
The key to making delicious dumplings lies in the dough. While some recipes call for a simple mixture of flour and water, others use milk or buttermilk for a richer flavor. The dough should be soft and pliable, making it easy to roll out and shape into dumplings.
To make the perfect dumpling dough, start by mixing all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Then, slowly add in your choice of liquid, whether it's water, milk, or buttermilk, and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, then let it rest for 10-15 minutes before rolling it out.
Filling and Cooking Dumplings
One of the best things about dumplings is the variety of fillings you can use. In South Africa, some popular fillings include ground beef, chicken, or lamb, mixed with onions, herbs, and spices. For a vegetarian option, you can use mashed potatoes, cheese, or mixed vegetables as the filling.
To fill the dumplings, roll out the dough into a thin sheet and cut out circles using a circular cutter or glass. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over and seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers.
To cook the dumplings, you can either boil or steam them. Boiling is faster, while steaming retains more of the dumpling's moisture and flavor. Whichever method you choose, make sure to cook the dumplings until they are light and fluffy, and the filling is fully cooked.
Now that you have the perfect dumpling recipe from South Africa, you can impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills. With its rich history and variety of flavors, dumplings are a beloved dish in South Africa, and now you have the knowledge to create your own version at home. So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness of South African dumplings for yourself?
![Durban Bunny Chow - [BOB] food blog](https://bob-food.de/uxechith/2018/15_durban_bunny_chow/durban_bunny_chow.jpg)
