Cheese for dumplings is a classic, easy to make appetizer that is both delicious and simple to prepare. Its umami flavor and salty taste compliments the savory, crunchy texture of the dumplings. There are several ways to prepare these dishes. You can either cook them right away, or freeze them in advance to use at a later date.
Cheese for dumplings can be made with a variety of cheeses. Fresh white cow milk cheese is commonly used, but cheddar or sharper cheeses work well too. Cheddar cheese dumplings are best served warm or fried. For a spicy twist, try topping them with chipotle aioli. These dumplings can also be prepared in a nonstick pan, and a light sprinkle of butter will add a bit of crispness.
To prepare these recipes, start by combining the flour and shortening. Cut the shortening in with a pastry blender or a fork. If the mixture is too dry, add a little milk. Be sure to stir the dough with a knife in a cutting motion until the dough is moistened.
In the next step, combine the milk and cheese together. Stir the ingredients until smooth. Then, fold the dough in half, making it into a half-circle shape. Continue to add the remaining cheese and chives until all the cheese is mixed into the dough. This recipe will produce about 55 dumplings.
Once the filling is ready, the dough should be divided into eight portions. Each portion should be rolled into a ball. Alternatively, the dough can be rolled into a 1/2″ strip, then cut into quarters.
The final step is to place the dumplings in a nonstick pan and heat it on medium-high heat for 8 minutes. Flip the dumplings every few minutes, until they are cooked through. Keep the pot covered to prevent steam from escaping. After they are done, drain off the excess water and transfer them to a colander. Serve them with sour cream or a dipping sauce.
If you are using fresh, not-boil cheese dumplings, you can store them in the freezer until you are ready to make them again. They will keep for up to a month in the freezer. You can also make cheese dumplings ahead of time, and freeze them individually, so you can have them ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Alternatively, you can serve these cheese dumplings dipped in sour cream. Try topping them with a few extra slices of cheese to add a punch of cheesy goodness. Or, make these easy cheese dumplings with dill. They can be prepared in less than 30 minutes.
Cheese for dumplings can be served with sour cream or butter. If you would prefer a different dipping sauce, you can try chipotle aioli, or sweet chili sauce. Adding a bit of chicken broth will also add flavor. Whether you choose to prepare these cheese dumplings for a party or just as an evening snack, they are sure to be a hit.
