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Can you keep dumplings on a crock pot?

Dumplings are a versatile food that can be prepared in many different ways. While they are often boiled or pan-fried, using a crock pot is another great option for cooking dumplings. Crock pots provide moist heat over a long period of time, which can help produce tender, flavorful dumplings. However, there are some important factors to consider when keeping dumplings in a crock pot.

The Benefits of Cooking Dumplings in a Crock Pot

Here are some of the benefits of using a crock pot to cook dumplings:

  • Even cooking: The moist heat and indirect cooking of the crock pot allows the dumplings to cook evenly all the way through.
  • Great for large batches: A crock pot can accommodate larger quantities of dumplings, perfect for feeding big groups and parties.
  • Hands-off cooking: Once assembled in the crock pot, dumplings can cook unattended for hours.
  • Tender and moist results: The extended cook time produces wonderfully soft and moist dumplings.
  • Complementary flavors: The dumplings can soak up the flavors of sauce, broth, or other ingredients cooked in the crock pot.

The low and slow cooking approach of the crock pot is ideal for getting pillowy soft yet fully cooked dumplings every time. The even heat distribution helps avoid bursting, tearing, or undercooking.

Choosing the Right Dumplings for Crock Pots

While most types of dumplings will work in a crock pot, some varieties hold up better than others during the long cooking time. Here are some of the best options:

  • Fluffy bread dumplings: These sturdy dumplings made with flour, egg, milk, and leavening can withstand hours of simmering. The yeast helps them puff up.
  • Gnocchi: Tender potato gnocchi maintains its shape and absorbs flavors beautifully in a crock pot.
  • Spaetzle: This soft egg noodle dumpling does extremely well cooked low and slow in brothy crock pot dishes.
  • Steamed bun dumplings: Filled buns and dim sum style dumplings steam perfectly in the moist environment of the crock pot.

More delicate dumplings like won tons and egg-based dumplings may fall apart more easily with prolonged cooking. Test out a few varieties to see which is your favorite for the crock pot.

Preparing the Dumplings for the Crock Pot

It’s important to properly prepare dumplings before slow cooking them to ensure they come out their best. Here are some tips:

  • Use a recipe formulated for crock pots. The amount of liquid and other ingredients should be optimized.
  • Cut larger dumplings like gnocchi into smaller pieces so they cook through.
  • Layer ingredients in the crock, such as sauce on the bottom, then dumplings, then more sauce on top.
  • Make sure dumplings are fully submerged in liquid to steam and cook evenly.
  • Add dumplings on top so they don’t stick to the sides or bottom of the crock.

Taking the time to arrange your ingredients correctly can prevent undercooked or overcooked dumplings.

Ideal Cooking Time and Temperature

Crock pots cook at lower temperatures than stovetop or oven methods, so dumplings will need ample time to become tender. Here are some tips for setting the cooker:

  • Cook on LOW heat for 6-8 hours for the best results.
  • Quick cooking on HIGH for 3-4 hours can also work if you cut dumplings into smaller pieces.
  • Aim for a sauce temperature of 185°F to safely cook dumplings through.
  • Check doneness and cook longer if dumplings seem stiff or gummy in the center.

Simmering dumplings with minimal boiling prevents them from getting overcooked on the exterior before the inside is finished. Low and slow is key for crock pot dumplings.

Choosing Sauces and Stews for the Dumplings

The sauce, stew, or broth you prepare in the crockpot will flavor and cook the dumplings. Here are some excellent options to consider:

  • Hearty tomato sauce: A bold, rich tomato sauce complements bread or potato dumplings.
  • Chicken noodle soup: Gentle chicken broth lets lighter dumplings like won tons shine.
  • Beef stew: Tender beef and vegetables make a perfect partner for fluffy bread dumplings.
  • Chili: Spicy chili and moist corn bread dumplings are a match made in heaven.
  • Vegetable curry: Fragrant curry with potatoes or chickpeas tastes wonderful with steamed bun dumplings.

Pick a flavorful sauce that corresponds to the type of dumpling. Stew and soup recipes tend to work best.

Serving Crock Pot Dumplings

Getting the dumplings from crock to table while maintaining texture and temperature is important. Here are some serving tips:

  • Use a gentle touch when removing dumplings to avoid damage.
  • Transfer dumplings immediately to a warmed serving bowl or plates.
  • Spoon hot sauce over dumplings right before serving.
  • For a crispy twist, use a broiler to briefly brown buttery breadcrumb toppings.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten up the dish before serving.

Serve crock pot dumplings soon after cooking for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen for later.

Cleaning Your Crock Pot After Cooking Dumplings

After cooking, there can be some stubborn stuck-on dough and sauce residue. Here are some tips for cleaning the crock pot:

  • Allow the insert to cool fully before cleaning.
  • Soak the insert to loosen residue, or fill with water and run on low heat.
  • Use a soft cloth, sponge, or brush to gently scrub the insert.
  • For stubborn spots, spray with cooking oil and let sit before scrubbing again.
  • Avoid abrasive scouring pads or cleaners which can damage the lining.

Taking the time to properly clean your crock pot after each use will keep it looking its best for many meals to come.

Common Questions about Crock Pot Dumplings

What can I add to the crock pot to flavor the dumplings?

Herbs, spices, broth concentrates, and aromatic vegetables like onions, garlic, and celery can add lots of flavor to dumplings as they cook. You can also include a bit of wine, citrus juice, or vinegar for some acidity.

Do I need to pre-cook the dumplings before adding to the crock pot?

Most dumpling recipes for the crock pot do not require pre-cooking. The dumplings can go straight into the crock raw and cook through gently over time.

Why are my dumplings mushy or falling apart?

Dumplings can get overcooked and mushy if cooked too long at too high of heat. Use low heat and test doneness early and often. Also make sure dumplings are fully submerged, and stir gently to prevent sticking and breaking apart.

How can I thicken the broth if it gets too thin?

If the cooking liquid gets too thin after hours in the crock pot, stir in a slurry of 2 tablespoons cornstarch whisked into 1/4 cup broth. Cook on high for 10-15 minutes until thickened.

Can I prepare dumplings from raw in my crockpot or should they be precooked?

Most dumpling recipes are designed to be cooked from raw right in the crock pot. The gentle moist heat allows them to cook through fully over several hours without getting mushy. Precooking is not necessary in most cases.

Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Dumplings

Follow these top tips for dumpling success:

  • Cut large dumplings into smaller pieces for more even cooking.
  • Completely submerge dumplings in the cooking liquid.
  • Layer ingredients, with dumplings on top to prevent sticking.
  • Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours for tender results.
  • Use a recipe formulated specifically for the crock pot.
  • Don’t peek or stir too frequently, which releases heat.
  • Test doneness early and often until you know timing.
  • Gently transfer cooked dumplings to a heated bowl or plates.
  • Keep sauce hot to ladle over dumplings just before serving.

Common Crock Pot Dumpling Recipes

Here are a few delicious crock pot dumpling recipes to try:

Chicken and Dumplings

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 4 celery stalks, sliced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp poultry seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups prepared bread dumpling dough

Place chicken, onions, carrots, celery, broth, and seasonings in crock pot. Cook on low 6-8 hours. Shred chicken. Roll dough into balls, arrange over top, cover, cook 1 hour more until dumplings are cooked through.

Apple Cider Pork Stew with Dumplings

  • 1 lb pork shoulder, cubed
  • 2 apples, cored and sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1 cup broth
  • 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp butter, cut into cubes
  • 2 tbsp milk

Combine pork, apples, onion, cider, broth, vinegar and spices in crock pot. Cook on low 6-8 hours. Mix flour, baking powder, butter, and milk to form a dough. Roll into balls and place on top of stew in single layer. Cover and cook on high 30-45 minutes until dumplings are cooked through.

Lentil Stew with Spaetzle

  • 1 cup dried lentils
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 3 cups spaetzle or small dumplings
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Combine lentils, broth, vegetables and spices in crock pot. Cook on low 6-8 hours. Stir in spaetzle, cover, cook 30 minutes more. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

Conclusion

Cooking dumplings in a crock pot produces perfectly tender results every time. With some simple preparation tips, the right dumpling type, flavorful stew, and proper cooking technique, you can enjoy incredible homemade dumplings with ease. Experiment with different dumpling doughs and fillings to find your favorite hearty crock pot meals.