Bring the essence of the Caribbean to your table with Jamaican Festival Fried Dumplings, a golden, lightly sweetened delight that's crispy on the outside and irresistibly soft inside. Made with a simple yet flavorful blend of all-purpose flour, cornmeal, a touch of sugar, and aromatic vanilla extract, these dumplings are quick to prepare and deeply satisfying. Each piece is gently kneaded and shaped by hand, then fried to perfection, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Perfect as a side to classic Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken or escovitch fish, or enjoyed on their own, these dumplings encapsulate the vibrant flavors of the island. Whether you're hosting a tropical feast or seeking comfort food with a twist, Jamaican Festival Fried Dumplings are an easy and delicious way to savor a taste of Jamaica.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Gradually add the water and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or by hand until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable.
Dust a clean surface with a light coating of flour and knead the dough gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Avoid overworking the dough.
Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a cylindrical or slightly tapered shape approximately 4 inches long.
In a large, deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough in; it should sizzle and float to the top.
Carefully place the shaped dough into the hot oil, a few pieces at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the dumplings are golden brown and cooked through.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the dumplings from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve warm as a side dish or on their own. Pair them with fried fish, jerk chicken, or your favorite Jamaican dishes for an authentic experience.
Calories |
8998 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 846.4 g | 1085% | |
| Saturated Fat | 120.8 g | 604% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 537.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1960 mg | 85% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 398.8 g | 145% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.1 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.2 g | ||
| Protein | 39.0 g | 78% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 48 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 16.5 mg | 92% | |
| Potassium | 550 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.