Jamaican boiled dumplings: simple, chewy flour and water dumplings boiled until risen and tender. A versatile staple for soups, stews and saltfish.
Jamaican boiled dumplings are about as simple as cooking gets: flour, salt and water, shaped into discs and boiled until pillowy. They turn up all over the Caribbean table, soaking up sauces and rounding out a meal. Chewy and filling, they're a good reminder that the plainest ingredients can be the most comforting.
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Prep 10 min
Cook 20 min
Total 30 min
Easy
Scale:
- 2 cups All Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Water
Nutrition (per serving)
230
kcal
7g
Protein
49g
Carbs
1g
Fat
Estimated per serving. How we calculate this.
Preparation
- In a large pot, bring water and salt to the boil for cooking the dumplings.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt, stirring to spread the salt evenly, then add water gradually, mixing with your hands until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into equal pieces, roll each into a smooth ball, and flatten slightly with your palm into a thick round disc.
- Drop the dumplings into the boiling water one at a time so they don't stick, stirring gently with a wooden spoon.
- Boil for 15 to 20 minutes, until cooked through and risen to the surface, stirring now and then.
- Lift them out with a slotted spoon, letting any water drain off, and serve.
Tips from the ZestyPlate Kitchen
- Add the water bit by bit so you end up with a firm, smooth dough rather than a sticky one.
- Knead only until smooth; the dough wants to be firm enough to hold its shape.
- Drop them into water that's at a proper boil so they don't stick to the bottom of the pot.
- They're ready when they've risen to the surface and feel firm. Give the centres time to cook through.
Frequently Asked Questions
They're a classic alongside ackee and saltfish, stewed meats, or any saucy dish. They mop up gravy beautifully.
Yes. Some versions work in a little cornmeal for extra texture and flavour. Adjust the water to suit.
The dough was likely too wet, or they came out too soon. Use just enough water for a firm dough and boil until they've risen and cooked through.
Fried dumplings, also called Johnny cakes, are a different and popular thing. This recipe is for the boiled kind.
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