Hairy Bikers: Mince and herby dumplings

The Hairy Bikers' Mince and Herby Dumplings is a classic Northern dish that encapsulates the warmth and heartiness of traditional British comfort food. This beloved recipe has been enjoyed for generations, and it's no surprise that it continues to be a favorite. The unique aspect of this dish lies in its simple, yet flavorful components: a rich and savory mince stew coupled with light, fluffy dumplings infused with fresh herbs.

Ingredients for the Mince and Herby Dumplings

The ingredients required for this comforting meal are straightforward and accessible, ensuring that anyone can recreate this dish at home:

• For the Mince:
  • Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Onion (large, thinly sliced): 1
  • Garlic cloves (finely chopped): 2
  • Celery sticks (finely sliced): 2
  • Carrots (diced): 2
  • Beef mince: 500 grams
  • Chopped tomatoes: 400 grams (canned)
  • Tomato purée: 2 tablespoons
  • Beef stock: 450 milliliters
  • Caster sugar: a pinch
  • Bay leaf: 1
  • Seasoning: sea salt and black pepper
• For the Dumplings:
  • Self-raising flour: 250 grams
  • Beef suet (shredded): 125 grams
  • Fine sea salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Fresh parsley (finely chopped): 2 tablespoons
  • Rosemary (finely chopped): 1 teaspoon
  • Thyme (finely chopped): 1 teaspoon

Preparation Instructions

1. Mince Preparation:
   • Begin by sautéing the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots in vegetable oil until they are softened. Following this, brown the beef mince, ensuring to break it up for even cooking.
   • The next step involves adding the canned tomatoes, tomato purée, beef stock, a pinch of sugar, and a bay leaf to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture is then simmered to develop the flavors.
2. Making the Dumplings:
   • The dumplings are made by combining self-raising flour with shredded beef suet, fine sea salt, and a mix of finely chopped fresh herbs. Cold water is added to form a soft dough, which is then shaped into balls and placed atop the simmering mince.
3. Cooking the Dumplings:
   • With the dumplings added, the dish is covered and cooked until the dumplings are well-risen and fluffy, offering a perfect complement to the rich mince below.

Storage and Reheating

This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently simmer the mince on the stove or microwave until piping hot, adding a bit of water if necessary to loosen the sauce. The dumplings are best enjoyed when fresh, but can be reheated in the same manner.

Nutritional Information

This recipe provides a hearty and satisfying meal. The beef mince is a great source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. The dumplings, although a bit indulgent, offer carbohydrates for energy. For more detailed nutritional values, it's best to calculate based on specific brands of ingredients used.

FAQ about the Mince and Herby Dumplings

• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
  • Yes, substitute beef mince with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable suet for the dumplings.
• Can I freeze this dish?
  • Yes, the mince freezes well. However, dumplings are best made fresh.
• Can I use other herbs in the dumplings?
  • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs to tailor the dumplings to your taste.

Original recipe by the Hairy Bikers, who are celebrated for bringing traditional British dishes to the forefront of home cooking. This Mince and Herby Dumplings recipe is a testament to their love for hearty, comforting meals​​​​.