16 Traditional Dumpling Recipe South Africa Deliciousness Awaits You!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
Traditional dumplings have been a staple in South African cuisine for many generations, with each region having its own unique spin on the dish. These delicious parcels of dough filled with a variety of savory fillings have become a beloved comfort food for many South Africans. Whether served as a side dish or as the main event, traditional dumplings hold a special place in the hearts and stomachs of the nation.
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Canola Oil, Curry Leaves, Minced
Bunny Chow is a popular street food in South Africa that originated in the city of Durban. It is essentially a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a delicious curry, usually made with chicken or mutton. The name Bunny Chow is said to come from the words "bani chow" which means "food for the people." This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting South Africa and is also a favorite among locals.
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Bobotie – Savory ground meat custard from South Africa
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Whole Milk, Large Eggs, White Bread
Bobotie is a traditional South African dish that is believed to have originated from the Malay community. It is a savory ground meat custard topped with a layer of egg custard and baked until golden brown. The dish is usually made with minced beef or lamb, flavored with curry powder, and served with yellow rice and chutney. It is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.
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Lamb stew from South Africa
Main Ingredients: Lamb Shoulder, Butter, Tomatoes, Red Chilies, Medium
Lamb stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that is popular in South Africa, especially during the colder months. It is made with tender chunks of lamb, potatoes, carrots, and a variety of herbs and spices. The stew is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a rich and comforting meal that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Easy Dumpling Sauce
Main Ingredients: Garlic Clove, Scallion, Soy Sauce, Chinkiang Vinegar
No dumpling meal is complete without a delicious dipping sauce, and this easy dumpling sauce is a must-try for all dumpling lovers. It is made with a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, and can be customized to your taste by adding chili oil or other seasonings. This sauce is perfect for any type of dumpling, whether steamed, fried, or boiled.
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Deep South Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Chopped Onion, Chopped Green Bell Pepper
Hoppin' John is a classic Southern dish that is traditionally eaten on New Year's Day for good luck. It is made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon, and is usually served with collard greens and cornbread. This Deep South version of Hoppin' John adds a delicious twist with the addition of smoked sausage, making it a hearty and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed year-round.
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Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chopped Onion, Carrots, Chopped Celery
If you love chicken and dumplings but don't have the time to make it from scratch, this chicken and dumpling casserole is the perfect alternative. It is made with shredded chicken, vegetables, and a creamy dumpling topping that is sure to satisfy your craving for this classic comfort food. It's easy to make and can be on the table in under an hour.
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Best Potsticker Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Hot Water, Cold Water, Shredded Cabbage
Potstickers, also known as Chinese pan-fried dumplings, are a popular appetizer or snack that can be found in many Asian restaurants. They are made with a thin wheat dough that is filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and vegetables, then pan-fried until crispy. This recipe for the best potsticker dumplings will have you making these delicious treats at home in no time!
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Momo (South Asian Meat Dumpling)
Main Ingredients: Salt, Dough, Water, Ground Meat, Onion, Cloves, Soy
Momo is a type of dumpling that is commonly found in South Asian countries such as Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. These delicious dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and spices, then steamed or fried until cooked. They are often served with a spicy dipping sauce and are a popular street food in these regions.
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Vegetable Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms, Scallions, Napa Cabbage
Vegetable dumplings are a delicious and healthy alternative to meat-filled dumplings. They are made with a variety of chopped vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms, along with seasonings and a touch of sesame oil for flavor. These dumplings can be steamed, fried, or boiled, and are a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more veggies to their diet.
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Chicken Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Chicken Broth, Large Carrots, Onions
Chicken dumpling soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially during the colder months. This hearty soup is made with tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors of the broth. It's easy to make and is a filling and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
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Dumpling Wrappers
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Water, Salt
If you want to make dumplings from scratch, the first step is to make the dumpling wrappers. These thin sheets of dough are what encase the delicious filling and can be used for steamed, fried, or boiled dumplings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make your own dumpling wrappers at home and take your dumpling game to the next level.
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Dumpling Dough From Scratch
Main Ingredients: Unbleached All Purpose Flour, Warm Water
If you're feeling adventurous and want to make dumplings completely from scratch, this recipe for dumpling dough is a must-try. With just flour, water, and a little bit of salt, you can make your own dough that is perfect for any type of dumpling. It's a fun and rewarding process that will result in delicious homemade dumplings.
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Chicken & Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Boneless Chicken Breasts, Carrots, Celery
Another classic comfort food, chicken and dumpling soup is a staple in many households. This version of the dish is made with a creamy broth, tender chunks of chicken, and fluffy dumplings that are cooked to perfection. It's a satisfying and delicious meal that is perfect for any day of the week.
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Easy Apple Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Crescent Rolls, Butter, Brown Sugar, Vanilla, Cinnamon
Sweet dumplings are a delicious dessert option, and this easy apple dumpling recipe is sure to become a favorite. It is made with a simple dough that is filled with cinnamon-spiced apples, then baked until golden brown. It's a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a potluck with friends.
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Apple Dumpling Bites
Main Ingredients: Crescent Rolls, Applesauce, Granulated Sugar, Ground
If you're looking for a fun and bite-sized version of apple dumplings, these apple dumpling bites are the perfect option. They are made with crescent roll dough, sliced apples, and a sweet and tangy sauce that is poured over the top. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or for a sweet snack any time of the day.
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Turkey Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter, Garlic Cloves, Carrots, Celery Stalks
If you have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any other occasion, this turkey dumpling soup is a great way to use it up. It's a delicious and comforting soup made with tender chunks of turkey, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. It's a great alternative to the traditional chicken and dumpling soup and is a great way to switch things up.
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How to make Chinese dumpling wrappers
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Water, Salt, Spinach
If you're a fan of Chinese dumplings, learning how to make the wrappers from scratch will take your dumpling game to the next level. This recipe is easy to follow and will result in thin and delicate wrappers that are perfect for any type of dumpling. Impress your friends and family with your homemade dumpling skills!
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Crazy Rich Asians Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Deveined Shrimp, Ground Pork, Ginger, Garlic, Bone
In the hit movie Crazy Rich Asians, there is a scene where the characters enjoy a delicious feast of dumplings. This recipe is inspired by that scene and is a combination of different dumpling recipes to create a delicious and luxurious dumpling dish fit for any crazy rich Asian. It's a fun and creative way to enjoy dumplings, and who knows, maybe it will bring you good fortune and luck just like in the movie!
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Easy Dumpling Soup
Main Ingredients: Sesame Oil, Fresh Ginger, Garlic Cloves, Chicken Stock
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious dumpling soup, this easy dumpling soup recipe is the perfect solution. It uses store-bought dumplings and a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting soup in no time. It's a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
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Soy and Vinegar Dumpling Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Vinegar, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Grated Ginger
Last but not least, another delicious dumpling sauce that is a must-try is this soy and vinegar dumpling sauce. It's a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil that creates a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. It's the perfect accompaniment to any type of dumpling and will take your dumpling experience to the next level.
The History of Dumplings in South Africa
Many believe that dumplings were introduced to South Africa by the Dutch settlers in the 17th century. However, some also argue that similar dishes were already being made by the indigenous tribes of the country. Regardless of its origin, dumplings have become deeply ingrained in the country's culinary culture and have evolved over the years to incorporate local flavors and ingredients.
Types of Dumplings
There are various types of dumplings found in South Africa, each with its own unique taste and texture. The most common type is the steamed or boiled dumpling, also known as "boerewors dumplings". These are made with a simple dough of flour, water, and salt and can be filled with anything from minced meat to vegetables.
Another popular type is the "potato dumpling", which is made by mixing mashed potatoes with flour and then boiling or frying them. These dumplings are a favorite in the Eastern and Western Cape regions of the country.
Regional Variations
As mentioned earlier, each region in South Africa has its own take on traditional dumplings. In the Eastern Cape, a popular variation is the "umngqusho dumpling", which is made with a mixture of maize and beans. In the Western Cape, "waterblommetjie dumplings" are a popular choice, made with the local waterblommetjie flower.
The Zulu community in KwaZulu-Natal has their own version of dumplings called "phutu dumplings". These are made with a mix of maize meal and water and are often served with a tomato-based gravy.
Modern Twist on Traditional Dumplings
While traditional dumplings continue to be a favorite, chefs and home cooks in South Africa have also been experimenting with new and creative ways to enjoy this classic dish. Some have added a touch of spice to the dough, while others have incorporated international flavors such as curry or soy sauce.
In recent years, there has also been a rise in "healthier" versions of dumplings, using alternative flours like almond or coconut flour and incorporating more vegetables into the fillings.
In conclusion, traditional dumplings in South Africa are more than just a dish, they are a reflection of the country's diverse culture and culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed in its traditional form or with a modern twist, dumplings will continue to hold a special place in the hearts and stomachs of South Africans for many years to come.
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