Southern Comfort on a Plate: North Carolina Chicken and Dumplings for Sunday Dinner!

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In North Carolina, Sunday dinners are more than just meals; they are a cherished tradition, a time for family and friends to come together and enjoy hearty, comforting food. Among the many beloved dishes, Chicken and Dumplings stands out as a quintessential North Carolina comfort food that warms the soul and brings a taste of home to every table.

A Taste of North Carolina Tradition Imagine a pot filled with tender, juicy chicken simmering in a rich, savory broth, accompanied by fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings. This is the essence of North Carolina’s Chicken and Dumplings, a dish that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the South. It's not just food; it's a hug in a bowl, a reminder of simpler times, and a celebration of family traditions passed down through generations.

Recipe: North Carolina Style Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), cut into pieces
• 8 cups water
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 3/4 cup milk

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, water, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Strain the broth to remove the vegetables and return the broth to the pot. Shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones, and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, stirring until a dough forms.
4. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 1-inch strips or squares.
5. Bring the broth to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings into the broth, a few at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and tender.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve the Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

The Final Touch The beauty of North Carolina's Chicken and Dumplings lies in its simplicity and ability to bring people together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a gathering of friends, or a Sunday supper, this dish is sure to create lasting memories and bring smiles to everyone’s faces. The tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings make each bite a comforting reminder of the love and care that goes into every home-cooked meal in North Carolina.

As you savor this dish, let the flavors transport you to the heart of North Carolina, where every meal is made with love, and every Sunday dinner is a celebration of family and tradition. Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of southern cooking and the cherished moments shared around the dinner table.

Source: Family Recipe