There's nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup on a chilly day, and my Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup is an ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes. The rich smell of braised short ribs mingling with sautéed onions and aromatic herbs fills the kitchen, instantly melting away the day's stresses. I discovered this soulful recipe while experimenting with pantry staples, leading to a delightful hybrid twist on traditional soup. Imagine tender, succulent short ribs nestled in a flavorful broth, topped with fluffy cornmeal dumplings that have a comforting cornbread-like texture. Each spoonful is a cozy hug, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, for those who may not have short ribs on hand, you can easily swap them for beef stew meat without losing that deliciously rich taste. Join me as we embark on this culinary journey that promises to turn any meal into a memorable feast!
Why is Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth in every bowl makes this soup the perfect remedy for chilly days. Unique twist on traditional soup combines savory short ribs and fluffy dumplings, delivering a delightful surprise with every bite. Versatile option, easily swap short ribs for beef stew meat to suit your pantry. Quick prep time allows for a hearty dinner on busy nights without sacrificing flavor. Crowd-pleaser, this dish brings everyone together around the table, creating lasting memories. Dive into a bowl of cozy satisfaction that's unforgettable!
Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup Ingredients
Discover the hearty components that make this Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup a truly comforting dish.
For the Soup
- Short Ribs – Provide hearty flavor and tender meat; using beef stew meat makes a delicious alternative.
- Olive Oil – Essential for searing short ribs and sautéing vegetables to enhance flavor.
- Onions – Create a flavorful base with essential sweetness and aroma.
- Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and a lovely color to the soup.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with a delightful fragrance that warms the soul.
- Thyme – Complements the flavors, adding a touch of earthiness and depth.
- Tomato Paste – Enriches the flavor profile with a slight acidity that balances the broth.
- Red Wine – Deglazes the pot for added richness; choose a robust red like Pinot Noir.
- Beef Stock – Forms the heart of the soup, two cups for braising and four cups for the final dish.
- Bay Leaf – Delivers an aromatic essence; remember to remove it before serving.
- Frozen Peas – Offers a pop of color and sweetness to brighten up the soup.
For the Dumplings
- Cornmeal – The primary ingredient for dumpling texture, offering fluffiness and a hint of sweetness.
- Flour – Provides structure to the dumplings, ensuring a light yet hearty feel.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the dumplings rise.
- Baking Soda – Works with the baking powder for extra lightness in the dumplings.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor throughout the dish.
- Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice and warmth.
- Cold Butter – Creates a delicate texture in dumplings, making them light and tender.
- Milk – Moistens the dough, contributing to a rich, buttery flavor.
- Chopped Parsley – Adds vibrant color and a fresh finish to the dumplings.
How to Make Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup
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Sear the Ribs: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
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Sauté Vegetables: Remove the short ribs from the pot and add a tablespoon of butter. Sauté the onions and carrots for 3-5 minutes, stirring until they are softened. Next, stir in the garlic, thyme, and tomato paste, cooking until fragrant.
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Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits that have stuck. Add 2 cups of beef stock and the bay leaf, then return the short ribs to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 3 hours, enjoying the delicious smells!
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Prepare for Soup: Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the pot. Shred the meat, discarding the bones, and return the shredded meat to the pot. Add the remaining 4 cups of beef stock, bring to a boil, and then let it simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
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Dumpling Preparation: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk and chopped parsley until just combined, then drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering soup.
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Cook Dumplings: Cover the pot and cook the dumplings for about 20 minutes until they are dry to the touch and fluffy, expanding beautifully in the soup.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each has a generous portion of dumplings. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh finish before serving.
Optional: Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months, leaving space at the top for expansion.
Dumplings Storage: To maintain texture, it's best to prepare dumplings fresh before serving; leftover dumplings can be refrigerated but may become dense when reheated.
Reheating: If reheating from frozen, allow the soup to thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen.
Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this soup, unlocking a world of delicious possibilities.
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Beef Stew Meat: Swap the short ribs for beef stew meat to achieve a similar rich flavor with a different texture.
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Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives in the dumplings instead of dried thyme for a vibrant, earthy flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Add hearty greens like kale or spinach to the soup for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
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Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a gentle heat that enhances the flavors without overwhelming.
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Mushroom Magic: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the soup for an earthy depth that complements the richness of the broth.
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Gluten-Free Dumplings: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this soup accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese to the dumpling dough for an indulgent, gooey surprise in every bite.
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Creamy Version: For a richer soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving, resulting in a luscious, velvety broth.
What to Serve with Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup?
There’s nothing like a cozy get-together over a bowl of comforting soup, complemented by delightful side dishes that enhance every bite.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up the rich broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.
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Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, brightening the overall dining experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet caramelized flavors from roasted carrots, squash, or Brussels sprouts bring depth and balance, while their textures add interest to the plate.
Flavorsome roasted veggies also make a colorful accompaniment, inviting warmth and earthiness to every forkful.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: Who can resist buttery garlic bread layered with melted cheese? It’s a delectable pairing that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender yet crisp asparagus spears bring a delightful freshness and slight bitterness that cuts through the richness of the soup, making for a sophisticated pairing.
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Red Wine: A robust glass of red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, elevates the meal, echoing the dish's deep flavors and warming the heart with every sip.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream strikes a perfect balance, providing a sweet finish to your comforting meal.
As you prepare your Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup, consider these pairings to create a delightful dining experience that soothes both body and soul.
Make Ahead Options
These Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup elements are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy nights! You can prepare the soup base (braising the short ribs and simmering the broth) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, but be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain its rich flavors. The dumpling mixture can also be made ahead and refrigerated for 3 days; just remember to drop the dumplings into the simmering soup to cook them fresh before serving. This way, you'll enjoy delicious, fluffy dumplings that are just as delightful, creating a heartwarming meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup
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Don’t Rush Searing: Ensure you sear the short ribs until nicely browned. This step builds a rich flavor base for your soup.
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Watch Dumpling Texture: Avoid stirring the dumplings into the soup until they are fully cooked to prevent them from dissolving. This preserves their fluffy texture.
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Use a Robust Wine: A flavorful red wine like Pinot Noir enhances the richness of the soup. Choose a wine you’d enjoy drinking for the best taste.
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Adjust Seasoning: After adding the shredded short ribs back into the soup, taste and adjust seasoning to ensure the flavors are just right.
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Fresh Herbs Boost Flavor: Consider using fresh herbs instead of dried thyme for the dumplings, as they can elevate the overall flavor of your Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup.
Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of short ribs should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! For this Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup, look for well-marbled short ribs as they provide the richest flavor and tenderness. Bone-in short ribs work beautifully, but if you prefer, you can also use boneless for easier handling.
How should I store leftovers of the soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a gentle reheat on the stovetop, as this helps maintain the delicate flavors and textures of your dish.
Can I freeze the soup, and for how long?
Yes! You can freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What can I do if my dumplings turn out dense?
Don’t worry! If your dumplings become dense, it might be because they were over-mixed or the batter was too thick. Next time, mix until just combined and drop them into the soup without stirring until they are cooked. This helps them maintain their light and fluffy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Very! This soup contains beef, which might not be suitable for everyone. For a lighter, vegetarian option, swap the beef stock with vegetable stock and use mushrooms for that hearty flavor, ensuring that the dish meets various dietary needs. Also, for those with gluten sensitivities, consider using gluten-free flour and cornmeal in your dumplings.
Soul-Warming Short Rib Cornmeal Dumpling Soup You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove ribs, add butter, and sauté onions and carrots for 3-5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, thyme, and tomato paste until fragrant.
- Deglaze with red wine, scraping brown bits. Add 2 cups beef stock and bay leaf, return ribs to pot. Cover and simmer for 3 hours.
- Once ribs are tender, remove and shred meat, discarding bones. Return shredded meat to pot, add remaining 4 cups beef stock and simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper. Cut in butter until coarse crumbs form. Stir in milk and parsley.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough into soup. Cover and cook dumplings for about 20 minutes until dry to touch and fluffy.
- Ladle soup into bowls, ensuring each has dumplings. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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