Jamaican Fried Dumplings

Jamaican · Side · Easy

Jamaican Fried Dumplings

Total
31 min
Prep
15 min
Serves
5
Calories
280
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Small flour dumplings fry to a golden shell around a tender, breadlike center. Their mild flavor is made for soaking up savory sauces.

Baking powder gives Jamaican Fried Dumplings a light interior without a yeast rise. A quick mix keeps the crumb tender, while shallow-frying turns the outside into a thin, crisp shell.

Make the balls small and flatten them slightly so the heat reaches the center. Let the first one cool enough to split before finishing the batch; an even crumb tells you the oil and thickness are right.

Method

  1. Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt together. Pour in most of the milk and mix with a fork, adding the remainder as needed to make a soft dough.

  2. Knead briefly just until the dough holds together. Divide into 10 portions, roll into balls and flatten slightly to about 3/4 inch thick.

  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Add five dumplings and fry for per side until golden and cooked through; a split center should look breadlike, with no wet dough.

  4. Transfer to a rack to drain. Return the oil to temperature and cook the remaining dumplings. Serve two per person while warm.

Forkue tips

  • Avoid prolonged kneading; developing too much gluten makes the centers chewy instead of tender.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat on a rack in a 350°F oven until the centers are warm and the crust firms up. Store away from sauces until serving.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

280Calories
6gProtein
40gCarbs
11gFat

Jamaican Fried Dumplings: FAQ

Can I use water instead of milk?

Yes. Add it gradually to the same soft-dough consistency. The dumplings will be a little less rich and may brown more slowly.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Mix it shortly before frying for the lightest result. Baking powder starts reacting when wet, so a long wait can leave the dumplings denser.

How do I store and reheat Jamaican Fried Dumplings?

Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat on a rack in a 350°F oven until the centers are warm and the crust firms up. Store away from sauces until serving.

How long does Jamaican Fried Dumplings take?

About 31 min in total: 15 min prep and 16 min cooking.

What do I need to make Jamaican Fried Dumplings?

The key ingredients are all-purpose flour, baking powder and milk, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Jamaican Fried Dumplings?

Avoid prolonged kneading; developing too much gluten makes the centers chewy instead of tender.