In the heart of Southern cuisine, where traditions are as rich as the flavors, Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings recipe stands out as a timeless classic.
Born and raised in Alabama, Brenda Gantt has become a beloved figure in the culinary world, especially for her authentic Southern recipes that capture the essence of comfort food.
Among her many creations, her Chicken and Dumplings recipe holds a special place, showcasing the warmth and love that defines Southern cooking.
Recipe of Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Stew:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into parts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 cups chicken broth
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Stew:
- Season the chicken parts with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- Add carrots and celery, cooking until vegetables are tender.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot, and add thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes to an hour until the chicken is tender.
- Prepare the Dumplings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings.
- Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk and vegetable oil.
- Stir until just combined, forming a soft dough.
- Finish the Dish:
- Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the pot and shred the meat from the bones. Discard bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the boiling stew, covering the surface.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of chicken, vegetables, and dumplings.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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Benefits of Gantt Chicken and Dumplings
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food. The hearty combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings provides a satisfying and comforting meal that is perfect for cold evenings or when seeking a taste of home-cooked goodness. The dish’s warm and soothing qualities make it an ideal choice to lift spirits and provide a sense of well-being.
- Versatile and Nourishing: This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Packed with a variety of vegetables and a rich broth, Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings offer a well-balanced and nourishing meal. The combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one pot makes it a convenient and wholesome option for those looking to enjoy a complete and satisfying dish without the need for additional sides.
- Simplicity in Preparation: One of the key benefits of Brenda Gantt’s recipe is its simplicity. The straightforward instructions and easily accessible ingredients make it a user-friendly option for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. The uncomplicated nature of the recipe allows individuals to recreate a Southern classic without the need for elaborate culinary skills, making it accessible to a wide range of home cooks.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings have a timeless and family-friendly appeal. The combination of familiar flavors and textures is likely to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners or gatherings. The dish’s ability to bring people together around a comforting and delicious meal contributes to its enduring popularity in households across the South and beyond.
- Elevates Tradition with a Personal Touch: Brenda Gantt’s recipe for Chicken and Dumplings carries the weight of tradition while incorporating her personal touch. This fusion of time-honored Southern cooking techniques and Gantt’s unique approach to flavor results in a dish that not only pays homage to culinary roots but also introduces a distinctive and memorable twist. This blend of tradition and innovation adds an extra layer of charm to the dish, making it a standout in the world of classic Southern comfort food.
Nutritional Facts of Gantt Chicken and Dumplings
It’s important to note that specific nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and specific preparation methods. The following nutritional information is an estimate based on a general recipe for chicken and dumplings.
Nutritional Facts for Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings (Per Serving, Approximately 1 cup):
Calories: 350-400 kcal
Total Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60-80mg
Sodium: 800-1000mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3-5g
- Sugars: 4-6g
Protein: 18-22g
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 40-50% DV (Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 10-15% DV
- Calcium: 6-8% DV
- Iron: 15-20% DV
Note: These values are approximations and can vary based on factors such as the specific ingredients and quantities used. The inclusion of vegetables and whole chicken in the recipe contributes to the nutritional value, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
However, the dish is moderately high in calories and may contain significant amounts of fat and sodium, which are typical for hearty comfort foods. Adjustments to the recipe, such as using leaner cuts of chicken or reducing added fats, can be made to align with individual dietary preferences and nutritional goals.
Conclusion:
Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings recipe embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and the warmth of a home-cooked meal.
With its hearty stew, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, this dish has the power to transport anyone to a front porch in Alabama, where the air is filled with the comforting aroma of good food and even better company.
Embrace the tradition, gather your loved ones, and savor the magic of Brenda Gantt’s Southern comfort in every bite.