Tomatoes and Dumplings Recipe: A Simple Yet Comforting Dish
If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and healthy meal, then this Tomatoes and Dumplings recipe is perfect for you. This dish features tender dumplings nestled in a tangy, flavorful tomato sauce, making it the perfect cozy meal. You can elevate the flavor by adding some herbs like basil, thyme, or allspice to the tomatoes, or even throw in extra vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery for more depth. The dumplings are soft, fluffy, and rich in flavor, with an option to add a touch of rosemary or tarragon to the batter for an added twist. For a creamier version, you could stir in a splash of cream or balsamic vinegar at the end. Ideal for busy weeknights, this low-protein, low-cholesterol dish takes under 30 minutes to prepare and is inexpensive to make.
Recipe Details
- Category: Vegetable
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 316.6 kcal |
| Fat Content | 12.5 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 5 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 50.5 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1195.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 45.9 g |
| Fiber Content | 3.7 g |
| Sugar Content | 18.7 g |
| Protein Content | 7.9 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Stewed tomatoes (with juice) | 2 cans (14.5 oz) |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Margarine | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Bisquick baking mix | 2 cups |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
Recipe Instructions
-
Prepare the Tomato Base:
- In a large, flat-bottomed kettle, combine the stewed tomatoes (with their juice), butter, margarine, sugar, and any desired seasonings (like basil, thyme, or allspice). This forms the flavorful base of the dish.
-
Heat the Tomato Mixture:
- Set the kettle over medium heat and bring the tomato mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to ensure the butter and margarine melt completely and the flavors meld together.
-
Prepare the Dumplings:
- While the tomato base is heating, combine the Bisquick baking mix, egg, and milk in a bowl to make the dumpling batter. The batter should be slightly thick but still able to drop from a spoon.
-
Form the Dumplings:
- Using a teaspoon, drop the dumpling batter into the simmering tomatoes, making sure to space them evenly. The dumplings will cook on top of the tomato mixture, soaking up the flavors as they steam.
-
Simmer the Dumplings:
- Once the dumplings are added, reduce the heat to low to prevent the tomatoes from scorching. Cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, letting the dumplings puff up and cook through.
-
Cover and Continue Cooking:
- After the first 5 minutes, cover the kettle with a lid and continue to cook for another 10 minutes. This ensures the dumplings are thoroughly cooked and soft.
-
Serve the Dish:
- After the dumplings are cooked, remove the lid and gently stir the tomatoes. Garnish the dish with freshly ground black pepper and additional pats of butter, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, one-pot meal.
Optional Variations:
-
Add Extra Veggies: For more texture and flavor, you can add diced onions, carrots, or celery to the tomato mixture. Sauté these vegetables in the butter before adding the tomatoes for an even richer taste.
-
Herb Options: If you enjoy fresh, fragrant herbs, mix some rosemary or tarragon into the dumpling batter for a unique flavor. You could also stir fresh basil or thyme into the tomatoes for added depth.
-
Creamy Twist: After the dumplings have cooked, consider adding a splash of cream or balsamic vinegar for a creamy, slightly tangy finish that elevates the dish.
-
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some chopped chili peppers to the tomatoes as they cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tomatoes and Dumplings recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, but it’s also a great way to enjoy a hearty meal in under 30 minutes. The dish is versatile, allowing you to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your personal preferences. The combination of soft dumplings and flavorful tomatoes creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a quick comfort food fix. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, this meal is a well-rounded option for those who enjoy flavorful, simple meals.
This dish’s simplicity is also its charm—using a few pantry staples like Bisquick and canned tomatoes, it’s budget-friendly and accessible. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it as a cozy side dish, Tomatoes and Dumplings is sure to become a favorite in your household.
