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Turn those turkey leftovers into a heartwarming masterpiece with this delectable Turkey and Dumplings recipe. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the rich flavors of the holiday season even after the feast is over. This dish is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor, making it a must-try for any home cook.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE TURKEY AND DUMPLINGS

Comforting Warmth: This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day. The combination of tender turkey, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a comforting and hearty meal.
Rich and Flavorful Broth: The simmered turkey and aromatic herbs infuse the broth with a depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Perfect Use of Leftovers: It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from holiday feasts, ensuring none of that delicious bird goes to waste.
Simple Preparation: Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. It’s accessible even for those who might not consider themselves expert chefs.
Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein from the turkey and an array of colorful vegetables, this dish offers a balanced mix of nutrients.

INGREDIENTS YOU NEED TO MAKE TURKEY AND DUMPLINGS

Ingredients for Turkey:

Cooked turkey, chopped
Celery stalks, chopped
Fresh parsley
Kosher salt
Black pepper
Dried thyme
Dried sage
Carrots, peeled and chopped
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Chicken stock (or turkey gravy, diluted with water)
Water
Dill
Cornstarch + water (for slurry)

Ingredients for Dumplings:

1.1 Gluten-free flour
Baking powder
Kosher salt
Fresh parsley
Butter, melted
Dill
Milk

HOW TO MAKE TURKEY AND DUMPLINGS

In a large dutch over or stockpot (that’s about 10 inches in diameter) over medium heat, combine cooked turkey, chopped celery, fresh parsley, kosher salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried sage, chopped carrots, onion powder, garlic powder, and olive oil.
Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are fork-tender.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the mixture.
While the turkey mixture is cooking, prepare the dumpling mixture. In a bowl, combine gluten-free flour, baking powder, kosher salt, fresh parsley, melted butter, dill, and milk.
In a separate mixing bowl, mix all the liquid ingredients.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
After mixing the dumplings batter, allow it to sit for 5 minutes before adding it to the pot. This helps the dumplings achieve the right consistency.
Use a 2-3 tablespoon for the dumplings to ensure the right size. Larger dumplings may become dense, and anything smaller that 2 tbsp could break apart.
Place the dumplings as a single layer on top of the stew/filling.
Avoid covering the dish while the dumplings are cooking to prevent extra moisture, which can cause them to break apart.
Wait 15 minutes before flipping the dumplings. During the 15 minutes of cooking, spoon the sauce over them to help the cooking process. The 15 minutes gives them enough time to cook thoroughly. One flipped, let them cook for an additional 5 minutes for perfectly cooked dumplings.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Turkey and Dumplings!

Substitutions + Alternatives

Can I use All-Purpose Flour?

Yes, All-Purpose Flour can be used. Use the same amount that is listed in the ingredients, but swap with all purpose.

Can I use regular dairy?

Feel free to make this recipe your own. I use dairy-free milk, but feel welcome to choose your preferred dairy option without any recipe adjustments. Unless specified otherwise, you have the flexibility to use the milk of your choice for the recipe.

Note: While almond milk is an option, it is less preferred due to its liquid consistency. Consider opting for a milk alternative with a thicker texture.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Simply substitute it for the turkey in equal amounts.

Are there any other vegetables I can add to this dish?

Certainly! You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like peas, green beans, or even spinach for extra color and nutrition.

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour for the dumplings?

Yes, you can use regular flour if you don’t have dietary restrictions. The measurements remain the same.

How can I store leftover Turkey and Dumplings?

Allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze Turkey and Dumplings?

While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the texture of the dumplings may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider making the dumplings fresh when you reheat.

In every simmering pot of Turkey and Dumplings lies a story of warmth and comfort, a tale woven with flavors that speak directly to the heart. It’s the embrace of tender turkey, the aromatic dance of herbs, and the fluffy dumplings that make this dish a cherished classic. With each spoonful, you’ll be transported to a place of familiarity and contentment, relishing in the simple pleasures of good food and cherished company. So, let this recipe be your go-to for turning those turkey leftovers into moments of pure culinary delight. Embrace the simmering pot, and let the magic unfold. Enjoy!