Picture this: a steaming bowl of hearty, flavorful vegan chicken and dumplings that’ll make your taste buds dance without any animal products. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re craving some serious comfort food.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses jackfruit and mushrooms to mimic the texture of chicken, offering a satisfying bite.
- The dumplings are light, fluffy, and made with simple pantry staples.
- Rich, savory broth that’s deeply flavorful thanks to a blend of herbs and spices.
- Completely plant-based, making it a guilt-free comfort food option.
- Easy to make with step-by-step instructions that ensure success every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups young green jackfruit, drained and shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegan Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the shredded jackfruit and sliced mushrooms, cooking until they start to brown, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for developing depth of flavor. Tip: Don’t rush the browning process; it’s worth the wait.
Step 2: Create the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and almond milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be sticky but manageable. Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it’s easier to handle.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings
Drop tablespoon-sized pieces of dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes. They should puff up and become light and fluffy. Visual cue: The dumplings are done when they float to the top.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the vegan chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their vegan chicken and dumplings, consider these advanced tips. First, roasting the jackfruit and mushrooms before adding them to the pot can add an extra layer of flavor. Second, incorporating a splash of white wine into the broth can introduce a subtle complexity. Lastly, letting the dumpling dough rest for 10 minutes before cooking can result in even fluffier dumplings. Experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Recipe Variations
- Swap jackfruit for tofu or seitan for a different protein texture.
- Add carrots, celery, and peas for a vegetable-packed version.
- Use gluten-free flour for the dumplings to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Incorporate coconut milk for a richer, creamier broth.
- Add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned jackfruit?
Absolutely! Canned young green jackfruit in water or brine works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse it well before using to remove any canned taste.
How can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a little added broth to loosen it up.
Summary
This vegan chicken and dumplings recipe is a plant-based twist on a classic comfort food, featuring jackfruit and mushrooms for the ‘chicken’ and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. It’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to satisfy.