West Virginia Comfort: Classic Chicken and Dumplings Recipe!

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In the rolling hills of West Virginia, where the mountains cradle small towns and the rivers weave through the landscape, comfort food holds a special place in the hearts of its residents. Among the most cherished dishes is the classic Chicken and Dumplings, a recipe that has been passed down through generations, embodying the warmth and simplicity of home-cooked meals.

The Heart of West Virginia Comfort Imagine a steaming bowl of tender chicken simmered to perfection, surrounded by fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings. This isn't just a meal; it's a comforting embrace, a taste of home that brings back memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners. Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a dish in West Virginia—it's a tradition that warms both the body and soul.

Recipe: West Virginia Style Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients:

For the chicken: 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces 8 cups chicken broth 1 large onion, chopped 3 carrots, sliced 3 celery stalks, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 bay leaves Salt and pepper to taste

For the dumplings: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tbsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed 3/4 cup milk

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken pieces, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat, discarding the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
3. To make the dumplings, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the milk until a dough forms.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through.
5. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

The Final Touch The magic of Chicken and Dumplings lies in its ability to bring comfort and joy to those who enjoy it. Whether it's a chilly winter evening or a rainy summer day, this dish provides a sense of warmth and homecoming that is truly unique to West Virginia. Each spoonful offers a delightful blend of tender chicken, savory broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings, creating a harmony of flavors that is both satisfying and nostalgic.

As you savor this classic comfort food, let it transport you to the cozy kitchens and friendly dining tables of West Virginia, where every meal is a cherished moment and every recipe tells a story. Chicken and Dumplings is not just a dish; it's a heartfelt tribute to the state's rich culinary heritage and the comforting traditions that make West Virginia feel like home.

Source: Family Recipe