If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying homemade dish, these ground beef and flour dumplings are the perfect solution. With a soft, tender dough encasing a savory ground beef filling, these dumplings are easy to make and absolutely delicious. This recipe requires basic ingredients like wheat flour, ground beef, onions, and garlic, but you can also add your favorite spices for extra flavor. These dumplings are perfect for a cozy meal and can be served with a dipping sauce or a side salad.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 500 g wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Boiling water (enough to form a smooth dough)
- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, or 1/2 teaspoon oregano for additional flavor
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add boiling water (around 1 to 1 1/2 cups) while stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Once the dough begins to come together, add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to make it more pliable and soft.
- On a lightly floured surface, work the dough by kneading it for 5 to 7 minutes until it reaches a smooth and elastic consistency.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer additional flavor, add spices like cumin, paprika, or oregano.
- Mix everything well until fully combined. Set the filling aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions to make it easier to handle.
- Roll out each portion of dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thickness.
- Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles of dough, approximately 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Place a small spoonful of the ground beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly to seal the dumplings. You can crimp the edges with a fork for extra security and decoration.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
- Fill a large pot with water, adding salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully add the dumplings to the bubbling water, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
- Cook the dumplings for about 8-10 minutes or until they float to the top and the dough is fully cooked.
- Once done, remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate.
Optional Step: Pan-Fry for Extra Crispiness
- If you prefer a crispy finish, heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and lightly fry the boiled dumplings until they are golden brown on each side.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the dumplings hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, garlic yogurt sauce, or a spicy tomato sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
Conclusion:
These simple ground beef and flour dumplings are a delicious homemade treat that’s perfect for a family meal or casual gathering. The combination of soft, chewy dough and the savory, flavorful beef filling makes each bite satisfying. Whether you enjoy them boiled for a soft texture or pan-fried for extra crispiness, these dumplings are sure to impress. Pair them with your favorite sauce for a complete and comforting meal!