Cooking With Brenda Gantt Chicken And Dumplings?ref=tfrecipes
Introduction
Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings, a beloved Southern classic, is a testament to simple ingredients and heartwarming flavors. The recipe’s popularity stems from Gantt’s own engaging personality and the dish’s inherent comfort-food appeal. It’s a commonly cooked meal because it’s both satisfying and relatively easy to prepare, offering a delicious and comforting experience, especially on cooler days.
Ingredients
The core ingredients for Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings include: a whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), all-purpose flour, shortening (or lard), milk, chicken broth or water, salt, pepper, and butter. Variations may include adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion to the broth for added depth. Self-rising flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour, but the amount of salt should be adjusted accordingly. For a richer flavor, homemade chicken broth is preferred over store-bought, though a good quality store-bought broth will certainly suffice.
Preparation Steps
Begin by preparing the chicken. Remove giblets and rinse the chicken thoroughly. If desired, chop vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion into large pieces to add to the broth. For the dumplings, measure the flour and shortening into a bowl. Cut the shortening into the flour using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add milk until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can result in tough dumplings. Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Rolling the dough out thin is key to achieving tender dumplings.
Cooking Instructions
Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot and cover it with chicken broth or water. Add salt, pepper, and any desired vegetables to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook the chicken until it is cooked through and easily shreds off the bone, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bones or vegetables. Shred the chicken, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the strained broth. Bring the broth back to a simmer. While the broth is simmering, roll out the dumpling dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into strips or squares. Drop the dumplings one by one into the simmering broth, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Gently stir to prevent sticking. Cover the pot and cook the dumplings until they are tender and cooked through, approximately 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings is best served hot, straight from the pot. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Traditional accompaniments include cornbread, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. The dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a side of green beans or mashed potatoes also complements it nicely. For plating, serve the chicken and dumplings in a deep bowl to showcase the comforting stew. A dollop of sour cream or hot sauce can be added for extra flavor if desired.
Tips and Common Mistakes
For the most flavorful broth, consider browning the chicken in the pot before adding the liquid. Do not overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and stringy. Undercooked dumplings are gummy and unpleasant, so make sure they are cooked through. Overcrowding the pot with dumplings can lower the broth temperature and result in uneven cooking. Avoid lifting the lid too often while the dumplings are cooking, as this can release steam and increase the cooking time. Some people prefer thinner, more noodle-like dumplings, while others prefer thicker, chewier ones. Adjust the thickness of the rolled-out dough according to personal preference. If the broth becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to thin it out. Adding a pat of butter at the end of cooking adds richness and shine.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning to cook Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings offers a delightful journey into Southern cuisine, providing a taste of home-cooked comfort that’s both satisfying and culturally significant. Its delicious flavor, combined with its adaptability to different tastes and occasions, makes it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It is an enjoyable project for cooks of all levels, allowing them to explore the basic techniques involved in making a stew and dumplings. Try this recipe at home and discover the joy of creating a classic dish. To explore more cooking guides and discover exciting recipes, visit foodrecipestory.com.
