How to Make Turkey and Dumplings: A Comprehensive Guide

Craving a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for using leftover turkey? Look no further than Turkey and Dumplings! This classic dish is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and holiday gatherings.

In this comprehensive guide we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the ingredients to achieving perfectly fluffy dumplings. We’ll also provide helpful tips and variations to customize the recipe to your liking.

Gather Your Ingredients:

For the Dumplings:

• 1 3/4 cups (210g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt
• 4 tablespoons (57g) butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley), or 2 tablespoons dried, optional
• 3/4 cup (170g) buttermilk
• 1 large egg

For the Pot Pie Filling:

• 4 tablespoons (57g) butter
• 1/2 cup (60g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
• 3 cups (680g) turkey stock, or a combination of stock and leftover gravy
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cups diced cooked turkey or chicken
• 2 1/2 cups (340g) mixed vegetables, frozen

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making the Dumplings:

1. Whisk: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Cut in Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Incorporate Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh herbs (if using).
4. Refrigerate: Cover the mixture and refrigerate it while you prepare the pot pie filling.

Making the Filling:

1. Melt Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Whisk in Flour: Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking for 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Add Stock: Slowly add the turkey stock or gravy, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Season: Add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes.
5. Incorporate Turkey and Vegetables: Stir in the diced cooked turkey and frozen mixed vegetables.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the filling into a 4-quart baking dish with a lid. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Whisk Buttermilk and Egg: In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
2. Combine with Dry Ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the chilled dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
3. Drop Dumplings: Drop large spoonfuls of the batter onto the simmering filling, leaving space between them.
4. Bake: Cover the dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and cooked through.

Tips and Variations:

• Substitute buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can thin 1/2 cup sour cream with 1/4 cup milk. Plain yogurt would also work as a substitute.
• Use leftover turkey or chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover turkey or chicken from Thanksgiving or any other meal.
• Add your favorite vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as carrots, celery, or peas.
• Make it vegetarian: For a vegetarian option, replace the turkey with diced tofu or mushrooms.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Turkey and dumplings pair well with mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and green beans.

Making Turkey and Dumplings is a simple and rewarding experience. You can make a tasty and cozy supper that the whole family will love by following these directions and adding your own unique touches. So gather your supplies, don your apron, and get ready to savor the delight of homemade dumplings and turkey!