5 Simple Steps to Make Cracker Barrel Dumplings

When you think of comfort food, Cracker Barrel's homemade dumplings likely come to mind. They're not just a side dish but a piece of American culinary history. Imagine enjoying those fluffy, comforting bites right in your own home. Here's how you can recreate this beloved dish with a straightforward recipe that respects the traditions of Cracker Barrel's cuisine. Ready to delve into the soul-warming world of dumplings?

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

For the Broth:

• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon parsley

🔎 Note: You can use homemade or store-bought broth, but quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of your dumplings.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add water, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. Adjust with more flour or water if needed.
2. Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. This process develops the gluten, which gives the dumplings their unique texture.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Roll Thin: Roll the dough out thinly. Aiming for a thickness of about ¹⁄₈ inch.
2. Cut into Strips: Use a knife or a pizza cutter to cut the rolled-out dough into long strips. These strips should be about 1-inch wide and 3 inches long.

Step 4: Prepare the Broth

1. Heat Broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the onion, garlic, pepper, and parsley. Allow these flavors to meld with the broth for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

1. Add Dumplings: Carefully add the strips of dough to the simmering broth. Be careful not to overcrowd; the dumplings will expand as they cook.
2. Simmer Gently: Let the dumplings simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffy and tender, but not overcooked, retaining their texture.
3. Serve: Use a slotted spoon to serve these fluffy dumplings in a bowl with some of the flavorful broth.

⚠️ Note: Don't stir the pot once you've added the dumplings. This helps prevent them from breaking apart or sticking together.

The process of making dumplings at home captures the essence of Southern cooking. This simple recipe brings you closer to the comfort and warmth of Cracker Barrel's renowned dish. By following these steps, you can enjoy this quintessential American comfort food, capturing the heart of Cracker Barrel's culinary tradition in your own kitchen. Whether it's for a family dinner or a special occasion, these homemade dumplings are sure to impress and provide that comforting, nostalgic taste.

Can I freeze the uncooked dumplings for later use?

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Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dumplings by arranging them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be cooked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I do if my dumplings turn out too thick or chewy?

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The dough might have been too thick or overworked. Next time, ensure you roll the dough to the recommended thickness and only knead it until it’s just smooth to prevent a dense texture.

Are there any vegan substitutes for the chicken broth?

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Absolutely, use vegetable broth or make your own using vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful vegan alternative.