Farmer Cheese Dumplings

Homestyle Comfort: Farmer Cheese Dumplings

Delight in the heartwarming flavors of Farmer Cheese Dumplings, a classic dish that brings together tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and savory dumplings in a rich, flavorful broth. This traditional recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly evenings when you crave a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making Farmer Cheese Dumplings from scratch, along with variations, keto-friendly versions, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!

Introduction

Farmer Cheese Dumplings are a beloved comfort food dish, cherished for their hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. This recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and delicate dumplings, all simmered together in a flavorful chicken broth. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a taste of home, Farmer Cheese Dumplings are sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Dumplings:

  • 1/3 cup self-rising flour
  • 1/2 cup farmer’s cheese
  • 1 egg, large
  • Pinch of black pepper, freshly ground
  • Pinch of cayenne

For the Soup:

  • 1/2 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
  • 1 1/4 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the pot and season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, farmer’s cheese, egg, black pepper, and cayenne. Mix until a smooth dough forms.

Step 3: Form the Dumplings

  1. Using wet hands, shape the dough into small dumplings, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 4: Add the Dumplings to the Soup

  1. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  3. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling soup and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ladle the Farmer Cheese Dumplings soup into bowls, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or peas for added flavor and texture.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as sage, parsley, or dill to customize the flavor profile of the dumplings and soup.
  • Creamy Variation: Add a splash of heavy cream to the soup for a creamy texture and richer flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I freeze Farmer Cheese Dumplings? A: Yes, you can freeze the dumplings before cooking them. Place the shaped dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. To cook, simply drop the frozen dumplings into boiling soup and cook until heated through.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese for the dumplings? A: Yes, you can substitute farmer’s cheese with ricotta cheese or cottage cheese if desired. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Q: How do I know when the dumplings are cooked through? A: The dumplings are cooked through when they float to the surface of the soup and are firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a dumpling; if it comes out clean, they are ready.

Keto Version

For a keto-friendly version of Farmer Cheese Dumplings, replace the self-rising flour with almond flour and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or guar gum in the soup. Additionally, use cauliflower florets instead of dumplings for a low-carb alternative.

Low-Carb Version

To reduce the carb content of this dish, omit the flour from the dumplings and use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour instead. You can also replace the carrots with lower-carb vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli.

In conclusion, Farmer Cheese Dumplings are a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or a hearty meal to share with friends, Farmer Cheese Dumplings are always a delicious choice. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!